SafePlants

Astragalus crassicarpus: Ground Plum Milk Vetch

Astragalus crassicarpus, commonly known as Ground Plum, is a perennial herb found in North American prairies. It is part of the diverse Astragalus genus within the Fabaceae (Pea) family.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant produces plum-like fruits.
• Many species of Astragalus contain toxic substances.
• Some species have sharp points on the fruit.

Considerations for Children

• This plant produces plum-like fruits.
• Many species of Astragalus contain toxic substances.
• Some species have sharp points on the fruit.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus crassicarpus
• Common Names: Ground Plum, Groundplum Milkvetch, Buffalo Bean, Buffalo Plum, Prairie Plum, Pomme de Prairie.
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family) / Papilionaceae
• Genus: Astragalus
• Species: crassicarpus
• Synonyms:
  • Astragalus caryocarpus Ker Gawl.
  • Astragalus mexicanus A. DC.
  • Astragalus succulentus
• Taxonomic Rank:
  • Variety: Astragalus crassicarpus var. crassicarpus
  • Variety: Astragalus crassicarpus var. sonorae (Sonoran ground-cover milkvetch)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to North America, particularly prairie regions.
• Found in Minnesota and Kansas.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Perennial, growing up to 0.5 meters (1 ft 8 in) in height.
• Decumbent stems extending 4-24 inches from the crown, typically hairy.
• Alternate leaves, 2-4 inches long, with 15-27 oval leaflets.
• Tubular flowers, approximately -inch in size, in various shades of purple. These flowers grow in clusters of 5 to 15.
• Fruit is nearly ball-shaped with a central ridge and a sharp, beak-like point, about inch wide. It is fleshy, round or oval seedpod resembling a greengage.

Ecological Role

• Legume: This plant can utilize nitrogen in the soil.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Edible fruit source for Native Americans, traditionally known as ground plums or buffalo beans.

Quirky Facts

• The edible seedpods look somewhat like a greengage.