SafePlants

New Mexico Spiny Milkvetch

This page provides information about the New Mexico spiny milkvetch, scientifically known as Astragalus kentrophyta var. neomexicanus.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant grows in spiny mats or clumps, and has persistent, spiny leaf stalks. These physical characteristics could pose a risk of injury to pets.

Considerations for Children

• This plant grows in spiny mats or clumps, and has persistent, spiny leaf stalks. These physical characteristics could pose a risk of injury to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus kentrophyta A. Gray var. neomexicanus (Barneby) Barneby
• Common Names: New Mexico spiny milkvetch, spiny milkvetch, spiny milk-vetch
• Family: Fabaceae (Legume Family)
• Synonyms/Alternative Names: Astragalus neomexicanus Wooton &amp Standley, Astragalus kentrophyta douglasii (Douglas&#39 spiny milkvetch)
• Taxonomic Rank: Variety

Distribution and Habitat

• Astragalus kentrophyta is native to North America, ranging from central to western Canada, to California, and New Mexico.
• Astragalus kentrophyta var. neomexicanus is endemic to New Mexico, with occurrences in San Juan County and McKinley County.
• It can be found on Palmer Mesa and in a 20 square mile area in New Mexico.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Generally small and low-lying, growing in spiny mats or clumps.
• Tufted perennial forming clumps up to 30 cm across.
• Has persistent, spiny leaf stalks.
• Reportedly develops in an erect manner, becoming a tree-like form with a bare stem and numerous ramifications as it ages.

Additional Information

• The New York Botanical Garden Herbarium (NY) has records of vascular plant specimens.
• New Mexico Cultural Resource Information System (NMCRIS) may contain additional data.
• ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is an authoritative taxonomic resource.

Quirky Facts

• "Renumex" was selected by the New Mexico State University Agricultural Experiment Station.