Species Tufted Milk Vetch
pink-purple flowers with green leaves and red-green stems

Tufted Milk Vetch

Astragalus spatulatus

Also Known As - Draba Milk Vetch
Tufted Milk Vetch (Astragalus spatulatus) is a low-growing flowering plant native to the western United States. Growing up to a foot tall, it has gray-green leaves and sprouts yellow pea-like blossoms in summer. The deep taproots make this plant drought and cold tolerant, making it a great choice for areas with dry or cold climates. The flowers and seeds are attractive to local wildlife, attracting pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds. Tufted Milk Vetch also has medicinal properties, and its roots are used as a natural remedy to help with digestive and respiratory ailments.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

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 the Tufted Milk Vetch every 7 to 10 days with 1-2 inches of water. Watering should take place during the early morning or early evening hours when temperatures are cooler. Water should be applied directly to the root zone. If more water is needed, water every 5 to 7 days, but avoid overwatering. This plant species enjoys optimal growth with medium water needs but can tolerate periods of drought.

sunlight

Tufted Milk Vetch grows best in full sun. This species of plants requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. If possible, provide at least 8 hours of sun for optimal vigor and flowering. This plant is very drought tolerant and can tolerate periods of water stress, but they will benefit from an occasional watering during periods of extended drought.

pruning

Tufted Milk Vetch should be pruned in late winter or early spring when the plant is still dormant. Pruning should be limited to removing dead branches and any new shoots that appear along the stems as the plant begins to grow. Splitting and thinning of the stems can be done after flowering. Ideally, about 1-third of the total new growth should be removed each year, although this may vary depending on the size and age of the plant. When pruning, it is important to make sure all cuts are clean and sharp, as this will create a better plant condition and may help to prevent disease.

Season

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

The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Astragalus spatulatus is in July and August.