Astragalus pehuenches

Common Names

Bladderpod, Yerba Loca

Summary

Native to Central Chile and Western Argentina, this perennial legume forms a compact, base-branched habit and reaches about 30 cm in height. It grows in dry areas with 3–5 months of drought and prefers full sun on level areas or north-facing slopes at elevations around 1700–2000 m, with a deep taproot extending up to 2 ft. Distinctive features include red flowers with five petals arranged in clusters at the ends of the stems.

For cultivation, it tolerates USDA Hardiness Zone 9, does not tolerate snow, and endures occasional freezing to −5 °C. Seeds are available for propagation, and the plant carries ornamental value, making it suitable for sunny, drought-prone landscapes.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

12-17.5 inches

Spread

1-2 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun. Tolerates partial shade.

Soil Type

Sandy, well-drained, fertile soil; pH 6.0–7.0

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

6.0-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Pink, purple, yellow, white, red, violet, blue

Growth Rate

Moderate

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts other pollinators, attracts birds