Sainfoin
astragalus onobrychis
Also known as: ["Bocksenbohne","Hedysarum onobrychis"]
Overview
A perennial legume native to Eurasia, valued for its nitrogen-fixing properties and palatable foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Astragalus |
| Botanical Name: | Astragalus onobrychis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open garden bed in a sunny, sheltered position
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenation is required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid direct sun during peak hours in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cold down to 20°F (-6°C) once established.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth starts; stop fertilizing in late summer to avoid tender growth.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division can be done in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Thin seedlings.
- Divide clumps carefully.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
Best Time: Early spring for seeds; early spring or fall for division.
Environment
Warm (65–70°F or 18–21°C), bright indirect light, and consistent moisture for seeds; similar conditions for division.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam for division.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may help for division.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; division plants establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, trowel, pruners, rooting hormone (optional).
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in early spring; protect young seedlings from frost; divide only when clumps are overcrowded.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back dead or weak stems; shape the plant by cutting back overgrown branches.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth and shaping as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; 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 is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop; roots can freeze in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent root damage.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Astragalus onobrychis is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAstragalus onobrychis is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to cats
Dogs
Non-toxicAstragalus onobrychis is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to dogs
Humans
Non-toxicAstragalus onobrychis is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used traditionally in some cultures for its potential health benefits, though scientific evidence for these uses is limited.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic to humans
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sainfoin suitable for grazing animals?
A: Yes, it is highly palatable and nutritious for livestock.
Q: Does Sainfoin require much water?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant and thrives in dry conditions.
Q: Does Sainfoin attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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