SafePlants

Purple Milkvetch: A Botanical Overview

Purple milkvetch is a common name applied to several plants, most notably Astragalus agrestis and Astragalus danicus. These plants belong to the pea family and are characterized by their attractive purple flowers.

Considerations for Pets

• These plants are in the pea family and have seed pods.
• Astragalus species often have hairy leaflets.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus agrestis Douglas ex G. Don; Astragalus danicus Retz.
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
• Genus: Astragalus
• Synonyms: The text mentions Astragalus agrestis and Astragalus danicus as species referred to by the common name Purple Milkvetch.
• Common Names: Purple Milkvetch, Purple Loco, Field Milkvetch, Meadow Milkvetch
• Astragalus striatus: Ascending Purple Milkvetch

Distribution and Habitat

• Astragalus agrestis is native to much of western North America.
• Astragalus danicus is found in southern and western Europe and is considered endangered in some regions, such as England. It thrives in limestone environments.

Morphological Characteristics

• Purple milkvetch is described as a low-growing, hairy herb.
• The flowers are bluish-purple and arranged in dense flowerheads, typically on stalks reaching about 30cm tall.
• Leaves are pinnate, typically 3-7 cm in length, with hairy leaflets numbering 15-21 and are 4 to 10cm long.
• Seed pods are dark brown and swollen. Identification of individual Astragalus species often relies on seed pod characteristics.
• Ascending Purple Milkvetch (Astragalus striatus) forms small clumps of velvety grey-green foliage.

Ecological Role

• The flowers are pollinated by bees.
• The seeds are consumed by songbirds and small mammals.
• Purple milk-vetch is mentioned in the context of clearing gorse to make room for it, suggesting specific habitat management efforts.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant is a food source for certain insects.
• Several butterfly species, including purple hairstreak, small heath, and white admiral, have been recorded in habitats where purple milk-vetch grows.

Quirky Facts

• Astragalus danicus was named based on the belief that it could increase milk yield in livestock.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a community resource for sharing tips and ideas for gardens.