Santa barbara milkvetch (Astragalus trichopodus)

Santa barbara milkvetch

Also known as: Southern california milkvetch, Ocean locoweed

Endemic to the southwestern coast of the U.S. in southern California, Astragalus trichopodus is a leguminous perennial whose blooming season lasts from spring to summer. Santa barbara milkvetch is an important host plant for the silvery blue butterfly and western tailed blue butterfly during their larval stages.

Scientific classification

Species

Santa barbara milkvetch (Astragalus trichopodus)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Winter

Bloom Time

White, Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Santa barbara milkvetch

Distribution of Santa barbara milkvetch

Distribution Map

Santa barbara milkvetch is indigenous to North America where it grows primarily in subtropical regions. Although it originates from a specific area within this continent, it has not been widely cultivated or naturalized in other regions globally, maintaining a relatively restricted geographic presence.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Open grassy places, bluffs, rocky places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Santa barbara milkvetch

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Santa barbara milkvetch thrives in dry conditions, exhibiting drought tolerance with a weekly watering regimen. Originating from arid environments, it has efficient water storage strategies and enhanced hydration retention, making it suitable for outdoor growth as an evergreen plant.

Fertilize: Santa barbara milkvetch benefits from a light application of high-nitrogen fertilizer in spring to boost growth and flowering. Use at quarter strength quarterly during active growth, tapering off in fall and stopping in winter to prevent root damage. Monitor soil health for nutrient uptake.

Pruning: Santa barbara milkvetch is a native perennial valued for its unique foliage and flowers. Prune in early to late spring to foster growth and flowering, removing dead stems and thinning crowded areas for better air circulation. Follow local guidelines for best practices.

Propagation: Santa barbara milkvetch is a perennial herb that needs well-drained soil and seed scarification for propagation. Seeds are sown in a sterile medium, kept moist, and germinate in several weeks. Young plants thrive in bright, indirect light and require gradual acclimatization before transplanting outdoors.

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Learn More About Santa barbara milkvetch

Sunlight Requirements

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