Description
Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones, also known as Spence's milkvetch, is a wildflower in the legume family Fabaceae. It was discovered by Marcus E. Jones in 1894 and is native to the western United States, specifically found in Utah, Nevada, and Idaho.
Appearance
Spence's milkvetch plant is a low-growing herb, typically less than six inches tall, with small, compound leaves. Its stem is hairy and prostrate, and the leaves are pinnately compound. The flowers are usually a yellowish-green color, with a tubular shape, and are arranged in racemes that are shorter than the leaves. The plant blooms from May to July.
Uses
Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones is not typically used in medicine or food, though it has cultural significance to the Western Shoshone tribe, who use it for medicinal purposes. The plant is also important to the ecosystem of the sagebrush steppe, providing food and habitat for wildlife such as rabbits and sage grouse.
Light Requirements:
The Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones plant typically grows in full sunlight to partial shade. It is ideal for areas with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. To grow healthy plants, provide sufficient light for a minimum of 4 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant favors warm and temperate climates. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 18°C and 25°C (64°F and 77°F). During the winter season, the plant becomes dormant and can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures. However, it is essential to avoid exposing it to extended periods of frost or freezing conditions.
Soil Requirements:
Well-draining soil is crucial to growing Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones plants. The plant does best in sandy or rocky soils that are slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should be free from heavy metals and other pollutants. Adding organic matter to the soil helps improve its overall quality and nutrient content.
Cultivation of Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones
Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones is an ornamental plant that can grow up to 18 inches in height and 24 inches in width. This perennial plant can be grown in pots, containers, as well as in gardens with well-drained soil. The plant requires partial shade and direct sunlight for up to 6 hours a day.
Watering Needs of Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones
The plant requires moderate watering. Water the plant thoroughly once a week in summer and once in two weeks during winter. Ensure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot and the plant to die. The plant can tolerate drought-like conditions, but it is best not to subject it to that.
Fertilization of Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones
Use a general-purpose liquid fertilizer monthly from early spring to the end of summer to boost plant growth. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength before application. Too much fertilizer can result in excessive foliage growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning of Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones
Prune the plant in late autumn, after flowering is complete. Cut all the stems back to about 3 inches above the ground to encourage fresh growth for the next season. Alternatively, you can prune the plant in early spring, just before the new growth appears. Remove any damaged, dead or diseased stems. This will help the plant to produce more flowers and stay healthy.
Propagation of Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones
Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and divisions. Different methods have varying degrees of success, and the best approach depends on factors such as the time of year and the plant's health and size.
Propagation by Seeds
Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones produces seeds, and they are a reliable means of propagation. The ideal time for sowing seeds is in spring when temperatures start to rise, and the soil is warm. The soil should be a well-draining mix, and the seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil. Once sown, they should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to oversaturate the soil. Germination can take up to several weeks, depending on the conditions.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings can be an effective method, but it requires careful attention to detail. Cuttings should be taken in early summer when the plant is actively growing. Choose a healthy stem and cut it just below a node, making the cut at a 45-degree angle. The cutting should be around 6 inches long and should have a few leaves present. Once cut, it should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm, bright location and watered regularly. Rooting can take several weeks.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division is another reliable method. It involves dividing the plant's roots into smaller sections to create new plants. This approach is best achieved in early spring when the plant is just emerging from dormancy. The plant should be gently lifted from the soil, and the roots should be untangled and divided into smaller sections. Each section should have a good number of roots and be planted immediately in a well-draining mix. The new plants should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, bright location.
Disease Management
Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones, commonly known as the Hermit Peak Milkvetch, is a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to some diseases. The most common disease that affects this plant is root rot, which is caused by fungi. To manage root rot, it is essential to provide proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. In case of root rot disease, remove and discard the infected roots, transfer the plant to a new soil, and replant it.
Another disease that can affect Astragalus eremiticus is powdery mildew, which is caused by fungi. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers. It causes the plant to weaken and drop its leaves prematurely. To manage powdery mildew, remove all the infected parts and apply fungicide with neem oil. Make sure to keep the plant in well-ventilated areas.
Pest Management
Astragalus eremiticus Sheldon var. spencianus M.E. Jones is also prone to some common pests. The most common pests that affect this plant are aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests suck on the plant sap, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Make sure to spray all the parts of the plant, including the undersides of the leaves. Repeat spraying in a week or two if necessary.
Cutworms and caterpillars can also infest this plant, causing the leaves and stems to be eaten. To manage these pests, handpick and remove them as soon as you spot them. Alternatively, you can use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad-based pesticide to control these pests.
Ensuring proper watering, fertilizer management, and providing well-draining soil can prevent the plants from getting prone to pests and diseases. Regular monitoring and quick identification of the symptoms will help in timely and effective management of the problems.
