Overview

Oxytropis lambertii is a plant with a low-growing perennial habit in the genus Oxytropis, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Oxytropis lambertii grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include rock gardens and alpine beds.

About

Oxytropis lambertii, commonly known as locoweed or purple loco, is a low-growing perennial from the Fabaceae family. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun with a south-facing, sheltered aspect and prefers well-drained, neutral loam soil. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suitable for rock gardens and alpine beds. Best planted in well-drained soil with watering during establishment, it can be propagated by seed or division and offers seasonal interest in spring and summer.

About the genus

Oxytropis is a genus of plants in the legume family. It includes over 600 species native to subarctic to temperate regions of North America and Eurasia. It is one of three genera of plants known as locoweeds, and are notorious for being toxic to grazing animals.

Wikipedia contributors, "Oxytropis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Oxytropis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Oxytropis

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam

Soil pH

Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Oxytropis lambertii size, habit and characteristics

Habit

Low-growing perennial

Foliage

Deciduous

Suggested uses

Rock gardens, alpine beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Oxytropis lambertii

Propagation

Seed, division

Pest resistance

Resistant to most pests

Disease resistance

Resistant to most diseases

Frequently asked questions