SafePlants

Spiny Milkvetch (Astragalus kentrophyta)

Astragalus kentrophyta, commonly known as spiny milkvetch, is a perennial subshrub forb/herb belonging to the genus Astragalus.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant has "spiny" leaf stalks.

Considerations for Children

• This plant has "spiny" leaf stalks.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus kentrophyta A. Gray
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
• Synonyms: Nuttall?s kentrophyta, thistle milkvetch, prickly milkvetch
• Subspecies/Varieties:
  • Astragalus kentrophyta A. Gray var. kentrophyta
  • Astragalus kentrophyta var. coloradoensis M.E. Jones ("Colorado spiny milkvetch")
  • Astragalus kentrophyta subsp. danaus (Barneby) W.A. Weber
  • Astragalus kentrophyta var. elatus
  • Astragalus kentrophyta var. jessiae
• USDA Symbol: ASKE

Distribution and Habitat

• Astragalus kentrophyta is native to western North America, ranging from central to western Canada.
• It is often found in very dry, rocky meadows and grows above 10,000 feet in elevation.
• It is known to be present in Idaho.

Morphological Characteristics

• The plant is a diminutive, tufted perennial that forms clumps up to 30 cm across.
• It features persistent, spiny leaf stalks.
• Stems can grow up to 1 cm.
• It has pinnate leaves with entire margins.
• The flowers have 5 petals.

Quirky Facts

• The New Mexico spiny milkvetch is described as developing like a tree, growing in height and developing a bare stem.

Additional Information

• Flowering typically occurs from May to July.