SafePlants

Astragalus allochrous: Halfmoon Milkvetch

Astragalus allochrous, commonly known as halfmoon milkvetch, is a member of the pea family (Fabaceae) and is a herbaceous plant native to the western and southwestern United States.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is often referred to as a "locoweed," a general term applied to milkvetches that can sometimes indicate potential toxicity. While not definitively stated here, the association should prompt caution.

Considerations for Children

• This plant is often referred to as a "locoweed," a general term applied to milkvetches that can sometimes indicate potential toxicity. While not definitively stated here, the association should prompt caution.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus allochrous A. Gray
• Common Name: Halfmoon Milkvetch
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea family, also known as legumes)
• Genus: Astragalus L. (Milkvetch, astragales, locoweed)
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Astragalus wootonii Sheldon; Astragalus accidens var. hendersonii; Astragalus allochrous var. playanus Isely.

Distribution and Habitat

• Astragalus allochrous is found in the western and southwestern USA, including Arizona and New Mexico.
• It grows in habitats such as sandy flats, up to 6000 feet, and the east Mojave Desert.

Morphological Characteristics

• Halfmoon milkvetch is a many-stemmed herbaceous plant.
• It's a short-lived perennial acaulescent forb, reaching up to 30 cm in height.
• The plant contains numerous purple flowers when in bloom.
• Leaves are compound, consisting of 11 to 19 small leaflets.

Quirky Facts

• Leaves of the Halfmoon Milkvetch have been historically used by the Navajo people of Ramah in ceremonial medicine as an emetic.