Status:
valid
Authors:
M.E.Jones
Source:
ildis
Year:
1895
Citation Micro:
Proc. Calif. Acad. Sci., ser. 2, 5: 641 (1895)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000170118
Common Names
- Serpens Milkvetch
- Snake Milkvetch
- Snake-pod Milkvetch
Synonyms
- Phaca serpens (M.E.Jones) Rydb. [valid]
Description
Astragalus serpens (also called Snake Milkvetch, among many other common names) is a perennial herb native to the western United States and Canada. It grows in dry, sandy soils and is typically found in open, sunny areas. It has small, white flowers and narrow leaves that are covered in short hairs.
Uses & Benefits
Astragalus serpens is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fatigue, digestive issues, and to boost the immune system. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and is known for its attractive purple flowers.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Astragalus serpens is a pale yellow, pea-like flower. The seed is a small, dark brown, round seed. The seedlings are small and have thin, light green leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Astragalus serpens can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in a well-drained soil in full sun and kept moist. Cuttings should be taken from new growth and planted in a well-drained soil in full sun. Keep the soil moist until the cuttings have rooted.
Where to Find Astragalus serpens
Astragalus serpens can be found in the western United States, primarily in California and Nevada.
Astragalus serpens FAQ
What are the growth requirements of Astragalus serpens?
Astragalus serpens prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate temperatures down to -20°F.
How often should I water Astragalus serpens?
Astragalus serpens should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season and every other week during the winter.
How can I propagate Astragalus serpens?
Astragalus serpens can be propagated from seed or by division of the root clumps.
Species in the Astragalus genus
Astragalus rumelicus,
Astragalus nevadensis,
Astragalus tymphresteus,
Astragalus alpinus,
Astragalus penduliflorus,
Astragalus anni-novi,
Astragalus austroargentinus,
Astragalus beatleyae,
Astragalus iselyi,
Astragalus moranii,
Astragalus neoburkartianus,
Astragalus neuquenensis,
Astragalus oxyphysopsis,
Astragalus phoenix,
Astragalus sanctorum,
Astragalus schinetorum,
Astragalus amnis-amissi,
Astragalus ampullarius,
Astragalus andersonii,
Astragalus anemophilus,
Astragalus anisus,
Astragalus applegatii,
Astragalus aquilonius,
Astragalus arequipensis,
Astragalus argentinus,
Astragalus argophyllus,
Astragalus aridus,
Astragalus arizonicus,
Astragalus arrectus,
Astragalus arthurii,
Astragalus asclepiadoides,
Astragalus asplundii,
Astragalus asymmetricus,
Astragalus atratus,
Astragalus austiniae,
Astragalus beathii,
Astragalus beckwithii,
Astragalus bellus,
Astragalus bernardinus,
Astragalus berteri,
Astragalus bicristatus,
Astragalus bisulcatus,
Astragalus bodinii,
Astragalus bolanderi,
Astragalus bourgovii,
Astragalus brackenridgei,
Astragalus brandegei,
Astragalus brauntonii,
Astragalus brazoensis,
Astragalus breweri,
Species in the Fabaceae family