SafePlants

Mulford's Milkvetch (Astragalus mulfordiae)

Mulford's milkvetch (Astragalus mulfordiae) is a rare plant facing conservation challenges.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Astragalus mulfordiae M.E. Jones
• Common Names: Mulford's milkvetch, milkvetch (used for many species in the Astragalus genus), locoweed (in North America, used for some species).

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family), Faboideae subfamily
• Genus: Astragalus
• Synonym: Onix mulfordae (M.E. Jones) Rydb (although this might represent a taxonomic reclassification rather than a strict synonym). Possibly Astragalus conjunctus var. conjunctus and/or A. reventus var. conjunctus, although these are unidentified milk-vetch specimens.

Distribution and Habitat

Mulford's milkvetch is found in specific areas, including Idaho, the Owyhee region, and the Boise Foothills. It thrives in deep sandy slopes and ridges.

Conservation Status

• Listed as Endangered.
• Designated as a Species of Concern by the US.
• Identified as a BLM Special Status plant species.
• Considered a high-priority conservation concern in Idaho.

Morphological Characteristics

It is described as a forb/herb, which means it's a non-woody plant that is not a grass.

Ecological Role

The plant's survival depends on specific soil conditions (deep sandy slopes), which limits its distribution to particular regions.

Interactions with Other Organisms

Mulford's milkvetch is mentioned alongside other rare plants like Aase's onion, indicating that it is part of a specific plant community.

Further Information

• IAE (presumably the Idaho Association of Experts) has tracked populations in the BLM's Vale district.
• ResearchGate hosts monitoring reports for Mulford's milkvetch.
• Oregon Flora Project: Provides information and images of Astragalus mulfordiae.

Quirky Facts

• The plant is named after Dr. Mulford, whose dissertation focused on Agaves. Some species, including Mulford's milkvetch, were named in her honor.