Species ground plum
pink-yellow fruits and green leaves and green stem on the ground.

ground plum

Astragalus crassicarpus

Also Known As - Buffalo Bean,Groundplum Milk Vetch
Ground plum (Astragalus crassicarpus) is an amazing plant species. It has a woody stem and produces bright colorful flowers in the late spring and summer. The leaves of the plant are divided into three leaflets that form a fan shape and they form the basis of the plant’s common name. The fruits of the plant are small and edible, often likened to plums and they have a surprisingly sweet flavor. Ground plum is a drought and cold tolerant native prairie plant. It attracts wildlife and provides food and shelter. Ground plum stands out in the landscape with its bright and cheerful flowers, making it an attractive addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 6

Flowers:

Purple to purple-pink and creamy white to greenish-yellow Flowers

Sun:

full sun,filtered shade

Fruits:

green,yellow Fruits Ready In Fall

Edible:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

watering

The ground plum (Astragalus crassicarpus) is a drought-tolerant plant species, meaning that it doesn't require a lot of water. However, the plant still needs a regular watering in order to stay healthy and flower. It should be watered deeply, twice a month during the growing season, and once every other month when dormant. To enhance growth and flowering, provide water every 10-12 days during warm months or late spring. When watering, make sure to water to a depth of at least 6 inches, as this helps to encourage the plant's deep roots.

sunlight

Ground plums need plenty of exposure to sunlight to remain healthy. They should receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight a day, ideally in the morning. It is important to note that during the hottest times of the day, 8-10 hours of direct sunlight can be too much and will scorch the plant. If the plants receive too little sun they will become stunted and bloom fewer flowers. When possible try and place the ground plums in a spot that received filtered sunlight in the afternoon.

pruning

Groundplum (Astragalus crassicarpus) are perennial plants that require occasional pruning to maintain their health. A light trim should take place in late winter or early spring before any new growth appears. This will ensure the plant does not have any dead, diseased, or woody growth that can impede healthy growth. For maximum bushy growth, some minor pruning can also be done during early summer, but care should be taken to avoid cutting away too much of the developing fruit. When pruning during this time, be sure to remove any stems that have crossed over each other and are competing for sunlight and air. Overall, groundplum require only light pruning once or twice a year in late winter/early spring and then again in early summer, only if necessary. Moderate pruning can help keep the plant healthy and encourage bushy growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Ground plums typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Ground plums typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

Astragalus crassicarpus, or ground plum, is typically harvested in the months of July and August.

Hardiness Map