Evergreen Milkvetch
astragalus sempervirens
Also known as: ["Perennial Milkvetch","Everlasting Milkvetch"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to mountainous regions, characterized by its evergreen foliage and pea-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Astragalus |
| Botanical Name: | Astragalus sempervirens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, alpine trough, or sunny border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best in late winter or early spring before new growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates full sun in cooler climates but benefits from partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; avoid direct midday sun in summer; provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, rocky or sandy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures down to 40°F (4°C) but avoids prolonged frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature indoors.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70°F (21°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a propagator or plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant evenly; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage holes; use fresh, well-draining soil; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below freezing; leaves may wilt or discolor.
Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAstragalus sempervirens is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAstragalus sempervirens is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAstragalus sempervirens is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential health benefits.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Astragalus sempervirens toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially in cooler months.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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