Acmispon glaber
Acmispon glaber · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant acmispon glaber: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- English name
- Smooth Deerweed or Hairless Lotus
- Family
- Fabaceae (Legumes)
- Type
- Annual to short-lived perennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April-September)
- Flowers
- Yellow, pink or red, in dense clusters
- Adult height
- 20 to 60 cm tall
- Hardiness
- Frost-sensitive, temperate to warm climate
- Origin
- Western United States and Mexico
Care
Light Exposure
Place this plant in full sun, ideally 6 to 8 hours daily. It tolerates semi-shaded areas but will flower less abundantly. Good light strengthens blooming and overall vigor.
Watering
Water regularly during growth, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once established, this plant tolerates moderate drought thanks to its taproot. Reduce watering in winter or during dormancy.
Soil
Well-drained, light soil is preferable, even poor soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils that promote root rot. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage if needed.
Fertilizing
As a legume, this plant fixes atmospheric nitrogen and needs little to no fertilizer. A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient to maintain good flowering.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pinch young plants to encourage branching and a compact shape. After flowering, remove spent blooms to extend the blooming period. Light spring pruning rejuvenates the plant.
Diseases and Pests
This plant is generally robust and rarely affected by diseases. Watch for aphids if the plant is water-stressed, and avoid excess moisture which can cause fungal rot.
Did you know?
Acmispon glaber is among the medicinal and forage plants long explored by indigenous peoples of the American southwest. Its genus name, Acmispton, literally means "sharp point" referring to the shape of its pointed seed pods, while "glaber" describes the smooth character of its leaves compared to other species in the genus.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese wisteriaWisteria sinensis
- Common broomCytisus scoparius
- Black locustRobinia pseudoacacia
- Common PeaLathyrus oleraceus
- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.