Species Curved-Pod Astragalus
yellow-green pods, stems, gray-brown twigs and branches

Curved-Pod Astragalus

Astragalus curvicarpus

The Curved-Pod Astragalus (Astragalus curvicarpus) is a member of the milk vetch genus, and is found in alpine and subalpine meadows throughout western North America. It grows up to 15 inches tall and is covered in narrow, lance-shaped leaves. Its bright yellow, newly-opened flowers can be seen from a distance. Its pods are unique, curved and egg-shaped, making them easily identifiable. This plant is an important food source for a variety of pollinators, as well as for many of the native bird species found in the area. It's a hardy species, capable of surviving in difficult growing conditions.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

brown,black Fruits Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

watering

Curved-Pod Astragalus requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. Usually it is best to water the plant once or twice a week in the growing season and once every 2 to 3 weeks during dormancy. If you are unsure as to when to water, wait until the soil is slightly dry and then give it a deep watering. Make sure to not over-water the plant as it can easily become waterlogged and may lead to root rot.

sunlight

Curved-Pod Astragalus (Astragalus curvicarpus) needs full sun, around 8 hours a day. The best time for it to receive its sunlight is during the peak hours of 10am to 4pm, when the sun is at its strongest. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn, so it is important to make sure the plant is somewhere that will protect it from excessive heat and scorching winds. During extreme heat waves, consider providing some shade for the plant in the afternoon hours.

pruning

Curved-Pod Astragalus should be pruned twice annually for optimal growth. Prune the plant in late winter, just before it begins to bud. This will help encourage new growth and prevent the stems from becoming too leggy. Prune again in late spring, once the plant has flowered, by trimming back any dead or damaged branches, and removing any shoots that are growing inwards towards the center of the plant. This will encourage a bushy, healthy shape and an abundance of blooms.

Season

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

Harvesting of Astragalus curvicarpus typically begins in July and continues through August.