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American milkvetch

Scientific Name: Astragalus americanus

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

American Milkvetch (Astragalus americanus)

American Milkvetch, scientifically known as Astragalus americanus, is a perennial herb belonging to the pea family. It is also commonly referred to as milkvetch, with the name "locoweed" being applied to some North American species.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some species of milkvetch, particularly those in North America, are considered toxic to livestock and wildlife.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Astragalus americanus (Hook.) M.E. Jones
  • Family: Fabaceae (also known as Leguminosae or Pea family)
  • Synonym: Astragalus alpinus var. americanus (Hook.)
  • Common Names: American Milkvetch, Milkvetch, Locoweed (for some North American species), Goat's-thorn (for A. gummifer, A. tragacanthus)
  • Other Species Names Mentioned: Astragalus aretioides (sweetwater milkvetch), Astragalus argophyllus (silver-leaved milkvetch), Astragalus alpinus var. brunetianus (Alpine milkvetch), Astragalus atratus var. mensanus (Mning milkvetch), Astragalus rusbyi (Rusby’s milkvetch), Astragalus filipes (Threadstalk milkvetch), Astragalus amphioxys (crescent milkvetch), Astragalus frigidus (Arctic Milkvetch), Astragalus canadensis (Canada milkvetch), Astragalus cicer L (Cicer milkvetch).

Distribution and Habitat

  • Milkvetches grow throughout much of the North American continent, including the western US, Montana, and Minnesota.
  • They are commonly found in meadows, deserts, and forests.
  • Some species, like Rusby's milkvetch, are endemic to specific soil types, such as basaltic soils.

Ecological Role

  • Canada Milk Vetch is mentioned as a nectar source for bumblebees and honeybees.
  • Some milkvetch species are considered poisonous to livestock and wildlife.
  • Packard's milkvetch is under protection from off-road vehicle use.

Traditional Uses

  • The roots of American Milkvetch have been traditionally used by Cree Woodlands people as a gastrointestinal aid, specifically for stomachaches, cramps, or stomach flu.

Further Information

  • Montana Field Guide
  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • Discover Life
  • Atlas of North American Astragalus (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office)