Overview
Astragalus recedens (Greene ex Rydb.) C.L. Porter, also known as the basin milkvetch, is a perennial herb plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in western and central regions of the continent.
Common Names
Aside from basin milkvetch, Astragalus recedens is also commonly known as Great Basin milkvetch and small-flowered milkvetch. The plant's common names often refer to its natural habitat, which is the Great Basin region of North America.
Appearance
Astragalus recedens has thin stems that grow up to 50 cm in height and are covered in fine hairs. The leaves are pinnately compound and have up to 17 leaflets. The plant produces small, white to yellowish flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruits are small pods that contain seeds.
Uses
Astragalus recedens has been traditionally used by indigenous people for medicinal purposes. The plant is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and extract from the plant has been found to have potential in treating certain diseases such as cancer and diabetes. The plant is also used as a forage for livestock, as it is high in protein and other nutrients.
Light Requirements
Astragalus recedens requires full exposure to sunlight in order to grow properly. It is usually found growing on open slopes or in areas with minimal shade. It thrives in locations with high amounts of direct sunlight, but is able to tolerate partial shade for short periods of time.
Temperature Requirements
Astragalus recedens is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of temperature conditions. However, it prefers to grow in areas with a moderate climate. It can survive in temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 degrees Celsius), but also thrives in temperatures ranging from 50 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 30 degrees Celsius).
Soil Requirements
Astragalus recedens is able to grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. It is able to grow in soils with varying pH levels, but typically prefers neutral to slightly alkaline soils. This plant is also able to tolerate some drought, but should be planted in soils that retain some level of moisture to promote proper growth.
Cultivation methods
Astragalus recedens is a hardy perennial plant that is easy to grow and care for. It is native to dry meadows and rocky slopes, so it prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location. The plant can tolerate some shade but will thrive in full sun. Plant Astragalus recedens in the spring after the last frost, or in the fall.Watering needs
Astragalus recedens is drought-tolerant once it is established, but it will need to be watered regularly until it gets established. Water deeply and thoroughly once a week, or more often in dry weather. Make sure the soil drains well, as the plant will not tolerate standing water.Fertilization
Astragalus recedens does not require fertilization, but it will benefit from an application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Apply the fertilizer according to the package instructions, and water well after application. Over-fertilizing can cause the plant to produce more foliage but fewer flowers.Pruning
Astragalus recedens does not require pruning, but you can deadhead spent blooms to prolong the flowering season. Cut the stem back to a leaf or node below the spent flower, and new blooms will emerge. At the end of the growing season, you can cut the plant back to the ground to tidy it up before winter.Propagation of Astragalus recedens
Astragalus recedens (Greene ex Rydb.) C.L. Porter, commonly known as the Pointedleaf Milkvetch, is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to western North America. It is commonly found in dry, open habitats such as sagebrush steppe and pinyon-juniper woodlands.
Methods of propagation
Astragalus recedens can be propagated by using both seed and vegetative methods. The following are the most popularly used methods:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagation is by seed. Seeds can be harvested from mature plants and can be sown in wet soil in the fall or spring. It is recommended to stratify the seeds before planting. Stratification is a process of chilling seeds at temperatures of 0 to 5 degrees Celsius for a certain period, depending on the species. For Astragalus recedens, three to four weeks of stratification is recommended.
Vegetative propagation
Astragalus recedens can also be propagated vegetatively by using stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant has actively growing stems. Cuttings should be taken from the top of the stem and should be at least 3 inches long. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and plant them in a container filled with moist soil. Keep them in a warm and humid environment until they establish roots and start growing. The success rate of stem cuttings depends on several factors, including the type of cutting taken, timing, and environmental factors.
Disease Management
Astragalus recedens is susceptible to various diseases. Some of the common diseases that can affect this plant are:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots, defoliation, and can ultimately lead to plant death. To manage this disease, fungicides like copper-based products can be used.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that leads to orange or yellow spots on the leaves, and can cause leaves to fall off prematurely. It can be managed by removing affected plant parts and using a fungicide.
- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that leads to root decay, stunted growth and plant death. To manage this disease, it is essential to have well-draining soil. Plants can be treated with a fungicide, but it is necessary to remove the affected portion of the root before applying the treatment.
Pest Management
Astragalus recedens can also suffer from pest attacks. Some of the common pests that can affect this plant are:
- Aphids: These are tiny, soft-bodied insects that can cause distorted growth and weakened plants. They can be managed manually by removing them with a blast of water or using insecticidal soaps.
- Caterpillars: These are larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage these pests, handpicking them off the plants and using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide can be effective.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny, eight-legged pests that can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves and a thin webbing on the plant. They can be managed by regularly spraying the plant with water, thus washing off potential spider mites, or using insecticidal soap.
It is essential to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of diseases or pest infestations. Once detected, early and appropriate action can help in effectively managing the problem, thus ensuring healthy and thriving plants.
