Species Spiny Milk Vetch
light-purple flowers, green leaves, pink buds and brown branches

Spiny Milk Vetch

Astragalus kentrophyta var. kentrophyta

Also Known As - Prickly Milk Vetch
The Spiny Milk Vetch (Astragalus kentrophyta var. kentrophyta) is an evergreen perennial shrub native to the western United States of America. With small, spiny leaves and yellow-white flowers, the Milk Vetch is an attractive and low-maintenance addition to any garden. It produces edible seed pods in early summer, and its strongly tap-rooted nature makes it an ideal choice for combating erosion on slopes or disturbed soils. The species requires little water and is tolerant of temperatures ranging from hot to cold; its hardiness has made it a durable and versatile choice for landscaping projects.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Purple Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

brown,tan Fruits Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water Spiny Milk Vetch at least once a week. The frequency of watering may increase to once every 3-4 days during hot and dry conditions, and may reduce to once every 2-3 weeks during cooler or wetter conditions. Make sure the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water early in the morning or in the evening to reduce any potential water loss due to evaporation.

sunlight

Spiny Milk Vetch requires full sunlight for optimal growth. Generally, 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day is enough for the plant%u2019s growth and health. However, the plant can tolerate partial sun or dappled shade as well. Sunlight in the morning is best for Spiny Milk Vetch, and if the plant receives too much afternoon sun it can scorch the foliage.

pruning

Spiny Milk Vetch (Astragalus kentrophyta var. kentrophyta) undergoes light pruning to maximize its flowering potential. Prune lightly in the spring, just before the plant begins to bloom. The goal should be to remove those shoots that are looking droopy or woody. This will help reduce the stress on the plant and give it a more compact, attractive shape with more blooms. Pruning is done selectively and any dead or broken branches should be removed. As with any pruning, be sure not to cut back too far and avoid damaging the base of the plant.

Season

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

Spiny Milk Vetch typically starts flowering in April or May.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Spiny Milk Vetch typically begins in July and continues through August.