SafePlants

Astragalus gypsodes: Gypsum Milkvetch

Astragalus gypsodes, commonly known as gypsum milkvetch, is a perennial forb/herb belonging to the Fabaceae (pea or legume) family.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus gypsodes Barneby
• Common Name: Gypsum Milkvetch
• Family: Fabaceae (peas, legumes)
• Genus: Astragalus L. (milkvetch, astragales, locoweed)

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that some species of Astragalus are known as locoweed, particularly in the western US. While the text does not specifically state Astragalus gypsodes has any specific toxicity, further research might be needed.

Distribution and Habitat

• Gypsum milkvetch is native to Texas and other states.
• It is found throughout the Great Plains, but is absent in the southeast.
• Its range extends from southern Manitoba and Alberta, south to eastern Minnesota and New Mexico.
• It is often found on gypsum soils and gypsum-rich deposits.

Morphological Characteristics

• Astragalus gypsodes is a perennial plant.
• It has stout, ascending stems that are often purplish-tinged.
• The leaves are pinnately compound.

Ecological Role

• Gypsum milkvetch is a species of concern in the Gypsum Soils Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC).

Habitat Preferences

• The gypsum milkvetch thrives when receiving full sunlight for at least a few hours per day.

Further Information

• Discover Life provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astragalus gypsodes.
• More information can be found at the New Mexico Rare Plants website: http://nmrareplants.unm.edu/rarelist_single.php?
• Species information can be found on Wikimedia: https://species.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?title=Astragalus_gypsodes&ampoldid=1420949