SafePlants

Humboldt River Milkvetch (Astragalus iodanthus)

Astragalus iodanthus, commonly known as Humboldt River milkvetch, is a flowering plant belonging to the legume family, Fabaceae. It's also sometimes referred to as violet milkvetch.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions the common names "milkvetch" and "locoweed" often associated with the genus Astragalus. These names are sometimes linked to toxicity concerns in livestock in other Astragalus species, though not directly stated for this particular species.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus iodanthus S. Watson
• Family: Fabaceae (Legume family)
• Genus: Astragalus L.
• Common Names: Humboldt River milkvetch, violet milkvetch, snake milkvetch (for variety diaphanoides)
• Synonyms:
  • Tragacantha iodantha (S. Watson) Kuntze
  • Xylophacos iodanthus (S. Watson) Rydb.
• Subordinate Taxa (Varieties):
  • Astragalus iodanthus S. Watson var. iodanthus
  • Astragalus iodanthus var. diaphanoides Barneby

Distribution and Habitat

• The Humboldt River milkvetch is found in the Humboldt River region of Nevada.
• Specific locations mentioned include Sweetwater Flat in the Humboldt Toiyabe National Forest (elevation 2015 m / 6605 ft) and the Santa Rosa Range in the Humboldt National Forest.
• Also found in the South Fork watershed of the Noyo River, north of .

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a forb/herb, meaning it is a non-woody plant that is not a grass.

Irrigation

• The text suggests letting the plant dry out between watering.

Further Information

• The USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database is mentioned as a source of information.
• Discover Life has a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astragalus iodanthus.