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Naturita milkvetch

Scientific Name: Astragalus naturitensis

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Naturita Milkvetch

Learn about the Naturita Milkvetch (Astragalus naturitensis), a plant found in specific regions of the southwestern United States.

Scientific and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Astragalus naturitensis Payson
  • Common Name: Naturita Milkvetch, Naturita Milk-vetch

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
  • Genus: Astragalus L. (milkvetch, astragales, locoweed)
  • Species: Astragalus naturitensis Payson
  • Synonyms:
    • Astragalus arietinus var.
    • Astragalus arietinus var. stipularis M.E. Jones
    • Tium naturitense (Payson) Rydb.

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Naturita Milkvetch is restricted to a six-county area in Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico.
  • Specifically found near De Beque, CO, and in southwest CO.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Low, subacaulescent perennial, about 10 cm tall.
  • Stems are 2-6 cm long.
  • Leaves are up to 6 cm long.

Ecological Role

  • This plant is considered vulnerable both globally and in Colorado.
  • Surveys are conducted for this species near historic uranium mines.

Associations

  • Bats, birds, deer, and elk might be found in sagebrush shrublands where Naturita milkvetch grows.

Further Information

  • Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astragalus naturitensis.
  • New Mexico Rare Plant Technical Council (NMRPTC): Offers online fact sheets including species information and distribution.
  • USDA Plants Database: Contains information about Astragalus naturitensis.