Plant Description
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus (M.E. Jones) Barneby ex Isely, commonly known as the Lava Milkvetch is a subspecies of Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is a herbaceous perennial plant. The plant grows up to a height of 5-35 cm and has a stem which is covered with dense hairs.
Plant Origin
One can find this plant species growing in the western regions of North America. They are specifically found in areas like southern Idaho, northern Arizona, and also in the Utah regions, USA. The plant species prefer to grow in rocky soils and are usually found in lava flows and rocky areas with minimal vegetation.
Plant Common Names
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus (M.E. Jones) Barneby ex Isely is commonly referred to as the Lava Milkvetch, as stated earlier, and is also known as the Basalt Milkvetch or the Rock milkvetch.
Plant Uses
The plant species has been used for various purposes. The herbaceous perennials are used for grazing and are an essential source of food for livestock in barren regions. These plants are known to accumulate selenium, which is beneficial for livestock with selenium is beneficial for the animals' growth and health. An extract of this plant is also used to manage diabetic conditions in traditional medicine.
In addition to the benefits noted above, the extract of the plant species also has the potential of managing asthma, bronchitis, cough, and more. People who have digestion issues make herbal tea from the dried plant to ease digestive problems. Besides, identified antioxidant and antibacterial characteristics can help improve the immune system and fight bacteria.
General Appearance
The plant Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus (M.E. Jones) Barneby ex Isely, commonly known as Lava Milkvetch, has narrow fitting leaves that have a fine texture. The flowers of this plant are pale yellow and grow in clusters. Lava Milkvetch leaves grow to 8 cm long and are found in odd numbers.
The Lava Milkvetch is a beautiful plant species that is resistant to extreme conditions growing in barren land. The plant provides essential benefits in medicine, livestock, and general ecology.
Growth Conditions for Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus
The growth conditions for the plant Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus require specific environmental conditions for its healthy growth and development.
Light
Light is an important factor for the growth and development of this plant. The plant requires full sun exposure and thrives in areas where it receives bright and direct sunlight. It is not suitable for growing in shade or low-light conditions, as it may affect the plant's growth and survival.
Temperature
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus is a plant that requires a cold environment for its healthy growth and development. It grows well at an altitudinal range of 1370-2590 meters, with temperature ranges of -15 to 30 °C. The plant is adapted to the subalpine and alpine climate and is frost tolerant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soil for its growth and development. It prefers soils that have a pH range of 6.0-8.0, which is alkaline. In addition, it requires soils that are high in organic matter, with good water retention capacity. The plant does not grow well in soils that are compacted or waterlogged, which may lead to root rot and other problems.
Overall, Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus requires specific environmental conditions to grow and thrive. The plant requires full sun exposure, a cold environment with a range of -15 to 30 °C, and well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0-8.0. Providing these growth conditions will ensure optimal growth and development of the plant.
Cultivation
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus (M.E. Jones) Barneby ex Isely can be cultivated in sunny and dry areas that are well-drained. It is important to make sure that the plants have enough space to grow, with a spacing of about 15-18 inches (40-45 cm) between them. The soil should be mixed with sand and gravel to enhance drainage and prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Watering Needs
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus (M.E. Jones) Barneby ex Isely is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require much watering. However, it is important to give it enough water during the first few weeks after planting to help the roots establish. After that, a deep watering once a month should be sufficient, unless there is an extended period of drought.
Fertilization
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus (M.E. Jones) Barneby ex Isely does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can help the plant to thrive. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause excessive growth and reduce the plant's tolerance to drought.
Pruning
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus (M.E. Jones) Barneby ex Isely does not require much pruning. However, dead or damaged stems and leaves should be removed to promote healthy growth. It is also important to remove any suckers that appear at the base of the plant, as this can redirect energy away from the main stem. Pruning can be done in the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant.
Propagation of Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus (M.E. Jones) Barneby ex Isely can be propagated through a variety of methods including seeds, cuttings, and division. Here are the details of each propagation method:
Propagation by Seeds
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus can be propagated by seeds. Harvest the seeds when the pods have dried out and turned brown. Remove the seeds from the pods and store them in a cool, dry place. When you are ready to plant the seeds, soak them in water overnight to improve germination. Sow the seeds in early spring or fall in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil and keep the soil moist. Germination can take up to four weeks. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots. After a few months, the seedlings can be planted outside in their permanent location.
Propagation by Cuttings
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus can also be propagated by cuttings. Take cuttings in the spring or early summer. Choose healthy stems that have no flowers or buds. Make a clean cut with a sharp knife or scissors. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Water the cutting well and cover it with a plastic bag or dome to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a bright, but indirect light. After a few weeks, check for roots by gently tugging on the cutting. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted into individual pots or planted directly into the ground.
Propagation by Division
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in the early spring or fall. Dig up the plant and gently shake off any excess soil. Carefully divide the root ball into smaller sections, making sure each section has several shoots and a good root system. Replant the new divisions in a well-draining soil mix. Water the new plants well and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus (M.E. Jones) Barneby ex Isely
Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus is a hardy plant that can tolerate extreme temperatures and dry conditions. However, even this plant can be affected by certain diseases and pests. Here are the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It is caused by overly wet soil and poor drainage. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining by adding sand or gravel to it. Additionally, avoid overwatering the plant by allowing the soil to dry out slightly before watering.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes the leaves of the plant to develop brown spots. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the disease. Additionally, ensure that the plant is watered in the morning to allow the leaves to dry before nightfall.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl up and turn yellow. To manage aphids, wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap spray.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to develop a stippled appearance. To manage spider mites, regularly wash the plant with water to remove the pests or use miticidal sprays.
3. Thrips: Thrips are small, winged insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn silver or bronze. To manage thrips, remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Additionally, use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to control the population of thrips.
By following these pest and disease management practices, you can ensure that your Astragalus chamaeleuce Gray var. laccoliticus plants stay healthy and thrive.
