Origin
Astragalus mollissimus Torr. var. matthewsii (S. Wats.) Barneby, commonly known as Matthews' woollypod or woollypod milkvetch, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. The plant is native to the United States and can be found in areas of Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah.
Common Names
Matthews' woollypod, woollypod milkvetch, and soft woollypod are common names for Astragalus mollissimus Torr. var. matthewsii.
Uses
The plant has traditionally been used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, including as a treatment for respiratory ailments and skin rashes. Matthews' woollypod is also used as a forage plant for livestock due to its high nutritional value. However, the plant should be used with caution as it contains a toxic alkaloid known as swainsonine.
General Appearance
Matthews' woollypod is a perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm tall. The plant has a thick stem with grayish-green, hairy leaves that are oblong and pinnately compound. The flowers are arranged in clusters and are typically yellow or purple in color. The plant also produces fruits that are hairy and elongated, containing 2-5 seeds.
Light requirements
Astragalus mollissimus Torr. var. matthewsii requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. Plants that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day exhibit better growth patterns than those grown in shaded conditions. A lack of sufficient light results in elongation of stems and limited flowering.
Temperature requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from as low as -10°C to as high as 35°C. The ideal temperature range for the species is 20°C to 25°C during the growing season. The species has a dormant period in winter, and during this period, they can experience temperatures as low as -20°C.
Soil requirements
Astragalus mollissimus Torr. var. matthewsii can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils with a pH range of 6 to 8. The plant requires well-draining soil for optimal growth. Soil rich in organic matter enables the plant to establish better root systems that result in better plant growth. Plants grown in soils with high salinity levels tend to show stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Cultivation
Astragalus mollissimus Torr. var. matthewsii (S. Wats.) Barneby, commonly known as Matthews' woollypod, is a robust perennial plant that is native to the western United States. It thrives in desert regions and is known for its ability to tolerate extreme heat and dry conditions. The plant requires well-draining sandy or gravelly soil that is rich in nutrients. It grows well in full sun to partial shade and can be propagated from seeds.
Watering Needs
Matthews' woollypod is drought-tolerant but requires moderate water during the growing season. The plant should be watered deeply once a week. Avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to root rot. During the winter months, reduce the watering frequency and allow the soil to dry completely before watering.
Fertilization
Matthews' woollypod requires regular fertilization to support healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10, every six weeks during the growing season. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
Prune Matthews' woollypod in the spring to promote vigorous growth and maintain the plant's shape. Remove any dead or diseased branches and cut back any overcrowded or weak growth. Do not prune the plant during the fall or winter, as this can stimulate new growth that may be damaged by cold temperatures.
Propagation of Astragalus Mollissimus Torr. var. Matthewsii (S. Wats.) Barneby
Astragalus mollissimus Torr. var. matthewsii (S. Wats.) Barneby, commonly known as Matthews' woollylocoweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America. Propagation of this plant can be achieved by various methods, including seed propagation, cuttings, and layering.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is a common method for propagating Astragalus mollissimus. Seeds can be directly sown in the garden or started indoors. For indoor starting, sow the seeds in a container filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep them moist. Place the container in a warm and bright location and ensure that the soil remains moist until the seedlings emerge. Once the seedlings have developed several true leaves, transplant them into individual containers and continue to care for them until they are large enough to be planted in the garden.
Cuttings
Astragalus mollissimus can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a cutting from the plant in early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Use a sharp, clean pair of pruning shears to make a 3-4 inch long cut about ¼ inch below a node. Remove any leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. The cutting should develop roots within a few weeks, and once it has established a strong root system, it can be transplanted into the garden.
Layering
Layering is another propagation method that can be used for Astragalus mollissimus. In early spring, select a low-hanging branch on the parent plant and bend it towards the ground. Use a sharp knife to make a small cut in the bark of the stem where it touches the ground. Dust the cut area with rooting hormone and cover the cut area with soil. Keep the soil moist and, by the end of the growing season, new plantlets should have developed at the point where the branch contact the soil. These new plantlets can be gently separated from the parent plant and transplanted elsewhere in the garden.
Disease Management
Astragalus mollissimus Torr. var. matthewsii (S. Wats.) Barneby is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and health. The most common diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease often appears as small, dark spots on the leaves of the plant. If left untreated, it can cause the leaves to yellow and drop off. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent future infections.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or yellow spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. The spots may become filled with a powdery, orange-colored substance. To manage rust, prune infected areas and ensure proper watering and fertilization to maintain the health of the plant.
- Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to turn brown and mushy. This may be due to over-watering or poor drainage. To manage root rot, reduce watering, and ensure proper drainage by using well-draining soil and pots with drainage holes.
Pest Management
Astragalus mollissimus Torr. var. matthewsii (S. Wats.) Barneby is also susceptible to several pests that can damage or kill the plant. The most common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can damage the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to wilt and eventually die. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock them off, or use insecticidal soap according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mites: Spider mites are small arachnids that can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. They are often found on the undersides of leaves and may cause yellowing or browning of the foliage. To manage mites, keep the plant well-watered and increase humidity by misting the leaves regularly.
- Cutworms: These caterpillar-like pests feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing damage or death. To manage cutworms, hand-pick them off the plant or use an insecticide labeled for cutworm control.
Regular monitoring of the plant and timely management of diseases and pests can help maintain the health and vigor of Astragalus mollissimus Torr. var. matthewsii (S. Wats.) Barneby, promoting its growth and survival.
