Astragalus stella

Astragalus stella

Native to:
Algeria, Baleares, Canary Is., Egypt, France, Libya, Morocco, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Tunisia, Türkiye, Western Sahara

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Astragalus
Species:
Astragalus stella
USDA Symbol:
ASST20

Growth Characteristics

Height:
15 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
mar,apr,may
Bloom Colors:
white, cream
Ground Cover:
Yes

Keystone Species Ranking

Pollen Specialist Bee Keystone:
★★★☆☆ Native pollen specialist bee species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, native pollinators
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to arid regions, prefers open areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
7–21 days
Notes:
Scarification recommended due to hard seed coat typical of Astragalus species. Warm temperatures improve germination after stratification.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Put in deep pot; protect from damping off

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society