Overview of Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire
Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to North Africa and can be found in countries such as Morocco and Algeria. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including rocky slopes, dry valleys, and open forests. The scientific name of the plant is derived from Greek, where "astragalos" means "anklebone," referring to the shape of the seed pods.
Common Names of Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire
The plant has several common names, including "Fatima's bean," "Heglig," and "Gum Arabic bush." In Arabic, it is known as "Hijlij."
Appearance of Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire
Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire is a shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has a woody stem and small, alternate leaves that are pinnately shaped. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom from March to May. The fruit is a linear pod that is 3-4 cm long and contains up to 15 seeds.
Uses of Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire
Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire has several medicinal uses. The root of the plant is used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory infections, hypertension, and diabetes. It is also used as a diuretic and as a remedy for kidney stones. In addition, the plant is a source of gum arabic, which is used in food and pharmaceutical industries as an emulsifier and stabilizer.
Light Requirements
The plant Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire requires full to partial sunlight. It grows best in areas where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, it can also tolerate some shade, meaning it can grow under tree canopies.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire is between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). The lowest temperature that this plant can tolerate is around 15°C (59°F), while the highest is approximately 35°C (95°F). It is important to note that the plant can survive frost, but it cannot withstand prolonged exposure to low temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Astragalus vogelii (Webb) Bornm. subsp. fatmensis (Hochst. ex Chiov.) Maire prefers well-drained sandy loam soils with a pH between 5.5 to 7.0. It grows best in soils that are rich in organic matter, but it can also adapt to poor soils. The plant's roots are able to penetrate compacted soils and can even grow in shallow soils. However, it is important to note that the plant is sensitive to water-logged soils, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis prefers a warm and sunny location with well-drained soil. It is recommended to cultivate it in a sheltered area to protect it from strong winds. The plant can be propagated by seed or cutting. The best time for sowing the seeds is in the autumn. The cutting should be taken in the spring or summer.Watering Needs
Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis is drought-tolerant, but it needs regular watering during the growing season. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to the plant's death. The frequency of watering depends on the climate, soil, and location. It is better to water the plant deeply once a week than to water it frequently in small amounts.Fertilization
Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis does not require heavy fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be used in the spring to promote growth. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and weak stems. It is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice in a year.Pruning
Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis does not require heavy pruning. It is recommended to prune the plant lightly in the spring to remove dead, diseased, or damaged stems. This will encourage bushy growth and maintain the plant's shape. The pruning should be done before the new growth begins. It is important not to prune too vigorously, as this can cause the plant to produce weaker stems.Propagation of Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis
Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis can be propagated using various methods such as seed propagation, stem cutting, and division.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis through seeds requires collection of mature pods in autumn, and extraction of seeds. After extraction, seeds are cleaned, and sow in a well-draining seed compost. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of compost, water them regularly and keep them in a warm and bright place. Seedlings should emerge within three weeks. When they are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots and gradually acclimate them to the full sun.
Stem cutting
Propagation of Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis through stem cuttings involves taking tip cuttings of about 10 cm long just below the node. Remove the lower leaves and insert the cuttings into a moist mixture of sand and peat. Place the cuttings in a propagator or cover with a plastic bag and keep them in a bright, warm place. Once the cuttings have rooted, gradually acclimate them to the full sun.
Division
Propagation of Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis through division involves separating the plant into two or more sections during the early spring. Carefully remove the plant from the ground, and clean the roots from the soil. Divide the plants using a clean, sharp knife and replant them in their individual pots in a well-draining potting mix. Water the plants and keep them in the shade until they are securely established.
Disease Management
Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and root rot. To manage these diseases, proper sanitation is important. Remove and destroy any infected plant materials and avoid overhead watering. Additionally, it is important to plant in well-draining soil and ensure proper air circulation around the plants. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure.
Pest Management
Common pests that can affect Astragalus vogelii subsp. fatmensis include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and stunt plant growth. To manage these pests, it is important to monitor the plants regularly and use physical methods such as spraying the plants with water or insecticidal soap. Biological control methods such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings can also help control pest populations. In severe cases, chemical sprays can be used, but it is important to follow label instructions carefully and avoid using broad-spectrum pesticides that could harm beneficial insects.
