Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Astragalus

Species:

Astragalus tenellus

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

may, jul

Bloom Colors:

pink, purple

Ground Cover:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Colorado, Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming, Canada: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Northwest Territories, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Yukon

Keystone Species Ranking

Bee Keystone:

★★★☆☆ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

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:

Commonly found in arid and semi-arid regions.