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rimrock milkvetch

Scientific Name: Astragalus desperatus var. conspectus

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Rimrock Milkvetch (Astragalus desperatus)

The plant commonly known as Rimrock Milkvetch is scientifically classified as Astragalus desperatus.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some plants in the Astragalus genus are referred to as "locoweed," a term associated with toxicity in livestock.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Astragalus desperatus M.E. Jones
  • Common Name: Rimrock Milkvetch
  • Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family / Leguminosae)
  • Genus: Astragalus L.
  • Variety: Astragalus desperatus var. desperatus
  • Synonyms/Related Taxa:
    • Astragalus desperatus var. petrophilus M.E. Jones
    • Astragalus desperatus var. conspectus Barneby

Distribution and Habitat

  • Rimrock Milkvetch is found in semi-desert environments.
  • It often grows in small pockets of soil on sandstone outcrops, leading to the "rimrock" connotation.
  • Specific locations mentioned include:
    • Colorado National Monument, CO
    • Butler Wash
    • Canyonlands
    • Western Colorado
    • "F Corners" area on remote rimrock ledges and mesa tops

Morphological Characteristics

  • Rimrock Milkvetch is a perennial herb.
  • It typically grows to a height of 0.4 inches to 1 foot (1 to 30 cm).
  • It is sometimes classified as a subshrub or forb/herb.

Additional Information

  • Real gardeners supply information and planting care instructions.
  • It flowers in the spring.

Further Resources

  • Discover Life: Provides biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution information.
  • USDA Plants Database.
  • Dave's Garden: A community sharing gardening tips and ideas.