SafePlants

Astragalus argophyllus: Silverleaf Milkvetch

Astragalus argophyllus, commonly known as silverleaf milkvetch or silver-leaf milkvetch, is a perennial herb belonging to the milkvetch genus.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is a heavy-rooted perennial, which might present a digging challenge for pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus argophyllus Nutt.
• Common Names: Silverleaf Milkvetch, Silver-leaf Milkvetch
• Genus: Astragalus L.
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
• Varieties:
  • Astragalus argophyllus Nutt. var. stocksii (S.L. Welsh) Barneby ex Isely
  • Astragalus argophyllus var. argophyllus
  • Astragalus argophyllus var. panguicensis
  • Astragalus argophyllus var. martinii
• Synonyms: Astragalus panguicensis (M.E. Jones) M.E. Jones, Astragalus panquicensis (M.E. Jones)

Distribution and Habitat

• The plant is native.
• It is found in western Colorado.
• One population of Astragalus argophyllus var. argophyllus occurs in shale.
• Found in Zion National Park.
• Observed in Henry Mountains, McMillan Springs Campground.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is a forb/herb, which means it is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• It is a perennial herb.
• It is a heavy-rooted perennial.

Related Species and Common Names

• Astragalus falcatus, also known as Russian milkvetch, sickle milkvetch, sicklepod milkvetch, and silverleaf milkvetch.
• Astragalus allochrous allochrous (halfmoon milkvetch)
• Astragalus agrestis (purple milkvetch)
• Astragalus chamaeleuce (cicada milkvetch)

External Resources

• Discover Life: Information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astragalus argophyllus.
• Dave's Garden: A community for sharing gardening tips, ideas, seeds, and plants.
• USDA: Information about Astragalus argophyllus var. argophyllus.
• CNPS (California Native Plant Society) Photo Database.