It is is the pea family and produces small, pea-like yellow flowers. Astragalus has a long history, many centuries in fact, as a medicinal herb in Chinese medicine. Research in modern day is also finding helpful benefits from the Astragalus herb plant. The Astragalus herb is also known as Milk Vetch or Chinese Milk Vetch.

Recommend starting seed directly outdoors after danger of frost has passed.

Astragalus can be planted in full sun to partial shade, in sandy, well drained soils.

• Scarify seeds before you plant them by scratching each seed with a nail file or nicking it with a knife--this will speed germination. It is also helpful to soak the Astragalus herb seeds in hot water for 24 - 48 hours.
• Prepare the planting area by turning the soil under to a depth of 8 inches. Level with a rake to remove clumps of grass and stones.
• Sow 2 - 3 seeds per plant (12 inches apart) directly outdoors after danger of frost.
• Cover 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep.
• Germination should occur in approximately 7 - 30 days.
• Keep seeds moist until germination.

• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
• The first year of establishment is the most challenging. Mulch around the herb plant to protect it during its first winter.
• When the herb plant is 4 - 5 years old, it is ready to harvest the root in the fall. Only the root is used medicinally.