Astragalus cicer
chickpea milk vetch
A spreading to semi-erect rhizomatous perennial, 60-100cm tall, with pinnate leaves of 17-31 leaflets. White to pale yellow flowers are produced in early summer and are followed by strongly-inflated seed pods covered with hairs
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Yellow White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Matforming
- Genus
Astragalus can be annuals or perennials, with usually pinnate leaves and pink, purple, yellow or white pea-flowers in terminal or axillary racemes or spikes
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, SW Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grown in well-drained soil in full sun. Dislikes strongly acidic soils
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
Trim back in the autumn
Pests
May be susceptible to aphids
Diseases
May be affected by root, crown and stem rots
Get involved
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