Yellow vetchling
astragalus glycyphyllos
Also known as: ["Vicia glycyphyllos","Willdenow's milk-vetch"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant in the legume family, known for its yellow flowers and sweet-tasting roots.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Astragalus |
| Botanical Name: | Astragalus glycyphyllos |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct sun in winter if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates cold winters and moderate heat; prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; stop fertilizing in late summer to avoid tender growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of established clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm until rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity around cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems to encourage branching; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or turn brown; growth slows; roots can suffer in poorly drained soil during freezes.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect from frost with a cover; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent root damage.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Astragalus glycyphyllos is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicSimilar to dogs, cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest large quantities of Astragalus glycyphyllos seeds or roots.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicWhile not highly toxic, large quantities of Astragalus glycyphyllos seeds or roots may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to saponins and other compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicAstragalus glycyphyllos is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption of seeds or roots may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of saponins and other secondary metabolites.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless consumed in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Astragalus glycyphyllos edible?
A: The roots are sweet and have been used in traditional medicine, but consumption should be approached with caution due to potential toxicity.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How should I care for Astragalus glycyphyllos?
A: Provide well-drained soil and moderate watering; it is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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