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shaggy milkvetch

Scientific Name: Astragalus malacus

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Astragalus malacus: Shaggy Milkvetch

Astragalus malacus, commonly known as shaggy milkvetch, is a fascinating plant species belonging to the milkvetch genus. This plant has several interesting characteristics and a specific geographical distribution that makes it unique.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that selenium, which Milk-vetch can contain, is poisonous to livestock.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Astragalus malacus A. Gray
  • Common Name: Shaggy Milkvetch
  • Family: Fabaceae (peas, legumes)
  • Genus: Astragalus L. (milkvetch, astragales, locoweed)
  • Species: Astragalus malacus A. Gray
  • Synonyms: Astragalus malacus var. obfalcatus (A.Nelson) M.E. Jones

Distribution and Habitat

  • Astragalus malacus is native to the Great Basin region of the western United States.
  • It has been observed on rocky slopes, such as those found above Mickey Hot Springs in the Alvord Basin of southeastern Oregon.
  • It has also been documented in the Pine Nut Mountains at an elevation of 1705 m (5600 ft).
  • The plant has been observed in Idaho.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Shaggy milkvetch develops in an erect manner, potentially becoming tree-like over time.
  • Stems are mostly ascending, 20 to 50 cm tall, shaggy with grey, woolly hairs.
  • It is a perennial milk-vetch from a taproot and branching stem-base.
  • The plant is described as having a "shaggy-villous coat" of lustrous, silky, cream-colored hairs 4-8 mm long.
  • The plant has an erect development in the lower part.

Ecological Role

  • Burning can result in greater crown volume in shaggy milkvetch.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Selenium is poisonous to livestock, so Milk-Vetch can be poisonous to livestock.

Quirky Facts

  • The text mentions that Astragalus malacus has a "shaggy-villous coat" of hairs, which contributes to its common name.
  • Some species of Milk-vetch can contain selenium and may be poisonous to livestock.

Further Information

  • Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astragalus malacus.
  • CalPhotos provides images of Astragalus malacus.
  • Information may also be found at the USDA.