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rimrock milkvetch
Scientific Name: Astragalus desperatus var. petrophilus
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Rimrock Milkvetch (Astragalus desperatus)
Astragalus desperatus, commonly known as Rimrock Milkvetch, is a perennial herb belonging to the Fabaceae (Pea) family.
Considerations for Pets
- As a member of the Astragalus genus, also known as locoweed, it's important to be aware of potential concerns.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Astragalus desperatus M.E. Jones
- Common Name: Rimrock Milkvetch
- Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family or Leguminosae)
- Genus: Astragalus L.
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
Subordinate Taxa
- Astragalus desperatus var. desperatus
- Astragalus desperatus var. conspectus Barneby
- Astragalus desperatus var. petrophilus M.E. Jones
Distribution and Habitat
- Rimrock Milkvetch thrives in semi-desert environments and openings, often found in small pockets of soil on sandstone outcrops.
- Observed locations include Alcove Nature Trail (Colorado National Monument, CO), Butler Wash, and Canyonlands.
- It grows in cracks or eroded depressions on sandstone rimrock ledges and mesa tops.
- This species is notably present in western Colorado and the Four Corners area.
Morphological Characteristics
- Rimrock Milkvetch is a perennial herb, typically growing to a height of 0.4 to 1 foot (1 to 30 cm).
- The plant is classified as a subshrub/forb/herb.