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Lindheimer's milkvetch
Scientific Name: Astragalus lindheimeri
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names:
Lindheimer's Milkvetch
Learn about Lindheimer's Milkvetch (Astragalus lindheimeri), a wildflower native to Texas and other states. This plant, also known as Buffalo Pea and Buffalo Clover, is a fascinating member of the legume family.
Considerations for Pets
- Belongs to the Fabaceae family (also known as Leguminosae), the Legume Family.
Scientific Name and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Astragalus lindheimeri Engelm. ex A. Gray
- Common Names: Lindheimer's Milkvetch, Buffalo Pea, Buffalo Clover, Lindheimer Milkvetch, Lindheimer's Astragulus
Taxonomy and Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Family: Fabaceae (also known as Leguminosae or Pea family)
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms: Referencing the text, the term Locoweed is also used.
- Taxonomic Status: Accepted
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Texas and other states.
- Found throughout central Texas and much of the Plains states.
- Adapted to gravelly limestone soils where vegetation is sparse.
- Prefers prairie hillsides and rocky bluffs.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Flowers typically bloom from March to May.
- Individual flowers are about 1/2 inch tall.
- Observed flower colors include purple and white.
Quirky Facts
- Some people have noted that this species emits a scent similar to Grape Kool-Aid.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Milkvetch (Astragalus sp.) serves as a host plant for the Marine Blue (Leptotes marina) butterfly.
Further Information
- Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astragalus lindheimeri.
- USDA, NRCS provides information on this plant.