Canadian Milk Vetch (Astragalus canadensis), proposed by Akène
🌿 A nitrogen-fixing perennial and ally of pollinators 🌿
Milkvetch is a native perennial that can grow up to 90 cm tall . It is distinguished by its nectar-rich cream flowers , which appear in June and July and attract a wide variety of pollinators , including bees and butterflies. Beginning in August , these flowers transform into seed pods that remain on the plant until winter, providing a valuable food source for birds .
🌱 A member of the Fabaceae family , astragalus is an excellent nitrogen fixer , contributing to soil fertility and ecosystem regeneration . It thrives in well-drained soils , in full sun to partial shade , and can tolerate moderate moisture .
Characteristics of the variety
📅 Flowering : June to July
📏 Height : 90 cm
🌱 Spacing : 60 cm
☀️ Exposure : Sun, partial shade
🌿 Life cycle : Perennial
🌾 Soil type : Sandy to loamy, well drained
💧 Soil moisture content : Medium
🦌 Deer Resistance : Low
📦 Seeds per packet : 75
Sowing and cultivation
📏 Sowing depth : 5 mm
🌡 Germination time : 15 to 20 days
❄️ Cold stratification : 30 days
⚡ Scarification : Light sanding before stratification
🔹 Indoor method (recommended for efficient germination) :
1️⃣ Gently scarify the seeds by rubbing them between two sheets of fine sandpaper . This slightly weakens the envelope to promote water absorption.
2️⃣ Mix the seeds with moist vermiculite and place them in an airtight bag in the refrigerator for 30 days .
3️⃣ After stratification, sow the seeds 5 mm deep in deep pots (at least 5-6 inches), as astragalus quickly develops a deep taproot .
4️⃣ Maintain constant humidity and a temperature around 20°C until the seedlings emerge.
5️⃣ Transplant to the garden after the last frosts .
🔹 Outdoor method :
🌿 Sow directly in autumn to allow for natural stratification, although germination rates may be lower.
💧 Prepare well-drained soil and water lightly until plants are established.
🌱 Once well rooted, astragalus is a resilient plant that contributes to soil health and biodiversity.
Medicinal and culinary uses
🌿 A recognized medicinal potential
⚠️ Caution when consuming Canadian astragalus
Although the root of Canadian milk vetch is edible , it is essential to exercise caution before consuming it.
🔸 Bitter taste = caution : If the root is bitter , it may indicate the presence of toxic alkaloids . It is therefore important to taste a small amount before using it .
🔸 Safe harvest :
- Harvest the roots in spring or fall , when the plant is well established.
- Avoid consuming the aerial parts , as they may contain undesirable compounds.
🔸 Recommended cooking methods :
- Drying : Air-dry the roots for a few days, which can attenuate any bitter compounds.
- Infusion : The roots can be made into a decoction (herbal tea) by boiling them for 15 to 20 minutes in water.
- Cooking : As with parsnips or burdock roots, you can steam or roast them to soften their flavor.
🥣 Recipe: Fortifying Astragalus Decoction
🌿 Ingredients :
- 2 tbsp dried astragalus roots
- 500 ml of water
- Honey or lemon (optional)
🔥 Preparation :
1️⃣ Boil the water and add the roots.
2️⃣ Let simmer over low heat for 15 to 20 minutes .
3️⃣ Strain and enjoy hot, with a little honey if desired.
🌱 Virtues : Known to strengthen the immune system , this decoction is perfect in times of fatigue or seasonal changes .
⚠️ Always consult a healthcare professional before consuming a medicinal plant , especially in case of doubt or medical history.
Ecological roles and utilities
🐝 A refuge for pollinators : Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects .
🌾 A natural nitrogen fixer : Improves soil fertility by enriching the soil with nitrogen.
🐦 A food source for wildlife : Its pods persist in winter , providing valuable food for birds .
💧 Easy to grow in well-drained soil , it promotes the restoration of natural environments and prevents soil erosion .
Companion plants
🌿 Aster, goldenrod, rudbeckia, sand rye
Enemy plants
🌿 None known
Why grow Canadian milk vetch?
🌸 An asset for pollinators and birds
🌾 A nitrogen fixer that enriches the soil naturally
🌱 Easy to grow and ideal for soil regeneration
🐝 A valuable addition to naturalistic gardens and flower meadows
🌿 Add Canadian Milk Vetch to your garden for a living, resilient landscape that benefits biodiversity!
