Fast growing biennial or short-lived perennial forb, somewhat woody and with pale blue flowers when allowed to bolt. Widely adapted to fertile, well-drained sites; intolerant of wet soils. Use in pastures and wildlife food plots. Forage quality comparable to many legumes. Dries too brittle to be a suitable hay plant. Deep taproot provides drought tolerance, extending midsummer pastures when other forages slump. Accumulates trace minerals and nutrients from lower subsoils. Reduces gastrointestinal parasites in small livestock and deer. Certain growing conditions may increase toxic nitrate levels. Taproot can be damaged by overgrazing or excessive trampling. Graze before bolt.

DISTRIBUTION / ADAPTATION

INFORMATION & ATTRIBUTES

Family: Asteracea

Duration: Biennial/Perennial

Growth Habit: Forb/herb

Native Status: Introduced

Growth Form: Bunch

Mature Height: 24 in.

Bloom Color: Blue

Bloom Period: Mid summer

Annual Precipitation: 20 in.

Drought Tolerance: Medium

Shade Tolerance: Intolerant

Elevation:

Wetland Indicator Status:

Fire Resistance: No

Fire Tolerance:

Nitrogen fixation:

SOIL ADAPTATION

Coarse Texture: Yes

Medium Texture: Yes

Fine Texture: Yes

Salinity Tolerance: None

CaCO3 Tolerance: High

pH Range: 6.0-7.5

SEEDING NOTES

Seeds per Pound:

Seeding Rate:  PLS lbs/acre

Season:

Days to Germination: