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Providence Mountains Milkvetch (Astragalus nutans)

Astragalus nutans, commonly known as Providence Mountains milkvetch, is a fascinating member of the milkvetch family. This page provides information on its classification, distribution, and other interesting aspects.

Common Names

• Providence Mountains milkvetch
• Milkvetch (general for most Astragalus species)
• Locoweed (in North America, for some species)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus nutans M.E. Jones
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea family)
• Order: Fabales

Distribution and Habitat

• Astragalus nutans is named for the Providence Mountains in the Mojave National Preserve.
• Observed in Hexie Mountains, Joshua Tree National Park.
• Elevation range is 50–250m.
• Found in Joshua tree woodland, Mojavean desert scrub, and Pinyon and juniper habitats.
• Associated with the Providence and Bullion Mountains areas.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Forb/herb, can be either annual or perennial.

Ecology

• Links the Cady Mountain Wilderness Study Area and the lands associated with the Borrego Milk-Vetch (Astragalus lentiginosus var. borreganus).

Related Species

• Other Astragalus species mentioned include: Astragalus acutirostris, Astragalus agnicidus, Astragalus norvegicus, Astragalus ackermanii, Astragalus alpinus, Astragalus amphioxys, Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae, Astragalus accidens, Astragalus accumbens, Astragalus jaegerianus, Astragalus johannis-howellii, Astragalus atratus var. mensanus, Astragalus nuttallianus, Astragalus filipes, Astragalus miser var. miser.

Further Information

• Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astragalus nutans.
• Encyclopedia of Life: Contains information on the genus Astragalus.
• USDA Plants Database.
• ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System).