Ground Plum
astragalus crassicarpus
Also known as: ["Prairie Turnip","Ground Bean"]
Overview
A perennial legume native to North America, known for its edible, plum-like pods and nitrogen-fixing capabilities.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Astragalus |
| Botanical Name: | Astragalus crassicarpus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or open field with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some sand or grit; can tolerate poor soils but benefits from organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or remove deadwood.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; in hot climates, provide afternoon shade; for indoor cultivation, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures between -30°F and 100°F (-34°C to 38°C); prefers cool nights during flowering.
Protect from late spring frosts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; monitor soil temperature for seed germination.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most reliable; stem cuttings can be attempted but have lower success rates.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring, after the last frost, for seeds; late spring or early summer for cuttings.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light for cuttings; consistent moisture for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix; for cuttings, use perlite or sand with some peat.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional for seeds; recommended for stem cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings typically root in 4–8 weeks and establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, rooting hormone, pruning shears, misting bottle, heating mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Scarify seeds for faster germination; use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded stems to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain vigor and shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger container.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the root zone; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water in the morning to minimize 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 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; adjust pH with lime if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in prolonged cold; wilting in sudden temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Plants may become dormant in winter; prolonged freezing can damage above-ground parts but roots are typically hardy.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in fall; avoid watering before freezes; protect container plants by moving them to sheltered locations.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and water stress even if soil is moist.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilization; stop fertilizing in late summer.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; discontinue fertilizing in late summer to prepare for dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAstragalus crassicarpus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAstragalus crassicarpus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAstragalus crassicarpus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used traditionally in some cultures for its purported health benefits.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Astragalus crassicarpus edible?
A: Yes, the pods are edible and resemble plums or beans.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and seeds.
Q: Is it drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in arid conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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