Wilson’s milkvetch

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm) tall, presenting Pinnately compound leaves, with numerous small leaflets along with Dense clusters of small, pea-like flowers, typically yellow or purple, followed by Pods with multiple seeds, typically curved and hairy. These features are supported by a reliable Taproot system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Native to Native to western North America, Wilson’s milkvetch thrives in Rocky slopes, alpine meadows, and open woodlands at elevations around 3,500 to 10,000 feet (1,100 to 3,000 meters). Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 3 to 7. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Wilson’s milkvetch, This plant prefers Full sun to partial shade and flourishes in Well-drained, sandy or rocky soils with a soil pH of about 6.0 to 8.5.

Wilson’s milkvetch needs watering,Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Prefers dry to moderately moist conditions, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Drip irrigation or deep watering supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Wilson’s milkvetch performs best within 20 F to 85 F (-6 C to 29 C). Its ideal growth occurs at around 60 F to 75 F (15 C to 24 C), though it tolerates ranges from Can tolerate temperatures as low as -20 F (-29 C) and high as 95 F (35 C). Additionally, maintaining Low humidity preferred encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Feeding with Low-nitrogen fertilizers, compost at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Organic matter, compost enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Stunted growth, yellowing leaves helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Late winter to early spring for Cut back dead stems to promote new growth tidies its appearance, while Not typically necessary; prefers to be in the ground may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Not applicable for ground planting increase and a fresh Not required for ground growing; if potted, use well-draining soil. for Staking or Support. None required.

During Winter dormancy, growth may slow and some Semi-evergreen; leaves may turn brown and droop in winter can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation or division and provide Scarification or soaking prior to sowing when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Not commonly propagated by cuttings to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisWilson’s milkvetch problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, spider mites and remain vigilant against Fungal root rot under excessive moisture. Implementing Good drainage, proper spacing and applying Insecticidal soap for pests, adjust watering for root rot when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

This plant pairs nicely with Other native dryland plants, legumes and shows None recorded, making it a flexible choice for various Ground cover, rock gardens, native plant gardens.

the Edible Parts: Young shoots (cooked) can be edible in small quantities. Toxicty of Wilson’s milkvetch, Mildly toxic; not typically consumed. learning about its Spring; harvest young leaves and stems, Used sparingly as a green vegetable, and Rich in protein; however, caution due to potential toxicity can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Traditionally used by some indigenous peoples for various ailments or note its Represents resilience in harsh environments; often involved in soil restoration..

With an Not evaluated, proper Habitat protection and restoration efforts in native regions