Status:
valid
Authors:
Pall.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1800
Citation Micro:
Sp. Astragal.: 45 (1800)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000208396
Common Names
- Versicolor Milkvetch
- Astragalus versicolor
- Versicolor Astragalus
Synonyms
- Astragalus bifidus Turcz. ex Ledeb. [valid]
- Tragacantha versicolor (Pall.) Kuntze [valid]
- Tragacantha bifida (Turcz. ex Ledeb.) Kuntze [valid]
- Astragalus abakanensis Less. ex Bunge [valid]
- Craccina bifidus (Turcz. ex Ledeb.) Steven [valid]
- Craccina versicolor (Pall.) Steven [valid]
- Astragalus austriacus Pall. ex Steud. [invalid]
- Astragalus multicaulis Turcz. [illegitimate]
- Astragalus olopterus Turcz. ex Steud. [invalid]
Description
Astragalus versicolor (also called 'Variegated Milkvetch', among many other common names) is an annual herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region. It has grey-green leaves and yellow flowers. It grows in dry, rocky areas and is often found in grasslands.
Uses & Benefits
Astragalus versicolor is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a medicinal herb to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and digestive issues. It is also used as a dye for fabrics and as a food source for livestock.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Astragalus versicolor has small, yellow flowers with a white center. The seed is a small, dark brown bean-like shape. The seedlings are small and have a single, oval-shaped leaf.
Cultivation and Propagation
Astragalus versicolor is a hardy perennial that can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-9. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation is best done by seed, which should be sown in late spring or early summer. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist until germination occurs. Once established, the plant requires little maintenance.
Where to Find Astragalus versicolor
Astragalus versicolor can be found in the Mediterranean region, including Spain, Italy, and Greece.
Astragalus versicolor FAQ
What is the scientific name of Astragalus versicolor?
Astragalus versicolor
What is the common name of Astragalus versicolor?
Versicolor Milkvetch
What is the natural habitat of Astragalus versicolor?
Mountain steppes and meadows in Central Asia
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