Astragalus

picnomon acarna

Also known as: ["Astragalus acarna","Astragalus tataricus"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Picnomon Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to Eurasia, known for its taproot and pinnate leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Picnomon
Botanical Name: Picnomon acarna

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to control size and shape.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in summer; move outdoors in spring/summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.

Temperature

Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; adjust care for seasonal shifts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain moisture.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; avoid cutting into old wood.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage new growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/damaged parts; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; provides fresh soil and space for growth.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; 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 early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant periods.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Picnomon acarna can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pest infestations, potentially affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Picnomon acarna may result from inadequate water supply, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Picnomon acarna are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Picnomon acarna is often caused by overwatering or fungal pathogens, which can lead to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Picnomon acarna. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, necessitating urgent veterinary care.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors loss of coordination excessive drooling
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek immediate veterinary assistance. Monitor the cat closely for any signs of distress.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Picnomon acarna can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and systemic toxicity. The plant's irritants can cause significant distress, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.
Humans
Toxic

Picnomon acarna contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. The plant's tissues contain irritants that affect the gastrointestinal and nervous systems, leading to severe discomfort and potential systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea dizziness weakness
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep out of reach of children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Picnomon acarna toxic to pets?

A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.

Q: How difficult is it to grow Picnomon acarna?

A: It has moderate care difficulty, requiring specific conditions.

Q: Does Picnomon acarna attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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