Species Flexile Milkvetch
light-purple flower with lime-green sepals, stems and a green bud

Flexile Milkvetch

Astragalus flexuosus

Also Known As - Slender Milk Vetch
Flexile Milkvetch (Astragalus flexuosus) is a bushy perennial plant with a spreading form. It is native to the western United States and can be found growing in rocky, open terrain. The clusters of bright yellow flowers are short and clustered, giving the plant a sprawling appearance. The leaves are fingered and gray-green in color. This plant is an important food source for wildlife, especially the pollinators they attract. It is also hardy and can survive in extreme temperatures and long dry periods. A great choice to add a bit of texture and color to a dry garden, Flexile Milkvetch is a beautiful and beneficial plant.

Watering:

Minimal

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

brown,tan Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Pretty Milk Vetch prefers well-drained soil that is evenly moist but not soggy. Water your plant deeply when the top inch of soil is dry. During spring and summer, water your plant on average once a week, potentially increasing to twice a week in periods of hot weather. During the colder months, reduce watering to once every 2 weeks or when the top of the soil is mostly dry.

sunlight

Pretty Milk Vetch thrives best in direct sunlight for 4–6 hours per day. This plant prefers full sun in the morning, with shade in the late afternoon or evening, especially in hot summers. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not be as vigorous or produce as many flowers. Plant in an area of the garden that receives at least 6 hours of sun each day, preferably in the morning.

pruning

Pretty Milk Vetch should be pruned in late spring or early summer when the new growth is seen. The pruning should be fairly light in order to maintain the natural shape of the plant, aiming to remove about 1/3 of the growth. Doing so promotes new growth while keeping the foliage looking full and lush. It is important to monitor for any signs of disease or pests after pruning as these can spread quickly. If any are found, take the necessary steps to eliminate them and prune away any affected areas. This helps to maintain the health of your Pretty Milk Vetch.

Season

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

⚠️ Perenual and its members cannot be held liable for any health issues that may arise from the information provided on the website or from using any of the plants found on the site. The information provided is intended to be used as general guidelines only.