Species Russian Milkvetch
red-green pods and green leaves on lime-green branches

Russian Milkvetch

Astragalus falcatus

Also Known As - Russian Sickle
Russian Milkvetch (Astragalus falcatus) is a herbaceous perennial found in northern Eurasia and southeastern Europe. This species grows to about 1-2 feet tall and produces pea-like flowers in the summer. It is easy to grow and propagate, and is tolerant of a range of conditions. The plant has grey-green foliage and its leaves are clover-like in shape. It prefers full sun and well-drained soils, so make sure to give it plenty of space. The flowers attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees, adding to the ecological diversity of the landscape. Russian Milkvetch's pods are edible and its crafty roots contain a sweet brown juice. This plant is useful in hay meadows and can be used ornamentally in gardens.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Drummond's Milk Vetch should be watered when soil begins to feel dry to the touch, usually once every 1-2 weeks. Avoid over-watering, as too much water can cause the plant to become waterlogged and unable to absorb the nutrients it needs to thrive. During the summer, consider watering every 5-10 days, depending on air temperature and humidity. In cooler months, reduce watering and allow soil to dry out more between watering. Keep in mind that too little water can cause the plant to become wilted and stressed.

sunlight

Drummond's Milk Vetch requires full sun exposure in order to thrive. In order to ensure the best growth and flowering for this plant species, it should be placed in an area that receives direct sunlight for at least 8 hours per day. More sunlight is beneficial, but the plant should not be exposed to more than 10 hours per day unless the area is very hot and dry. The sunlight should be provided at a consistent, regular time each day and not sporadically throughout the day as this will lead to an stressed or unhealthy plant.

pruning

Drummond's Milk Vetch is a perennial plant that can reach up to 3-4 feet in height. It should be pruned back once a year in early spring. Start by removing any dead or diseased branches, as well as any that are growing in a direction you don't want them to grow in. Then, cut the plant back so that it is about 1 foot shorter than it was when you started. This will encourage more bushy growth, creating a fuller and more attractive plant. Be sure to use sharp pruners and clean your tools when you are finished to prevent the spread of disease.

Season

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

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