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smallflowered milkvetch

Scientific Name: Astragalus nuttallianus

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Astragalus nuttallianus: Smallflowered Milkvetch

Astragalus nuttallianus, a member of the milkvetch family, goes by several common names, including smallflower milkvetch, Nuttall's milkvetch, and turkeypeas. It is also sometimes referred to as locoweed, though this name is used for multiple Astragalus species.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Astragalus nuttallianus DC.
  • Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
  • Synonym: USDA Symbol: ASNU4
  • Variety: Astragalus nuttallianus var. nuttallianus DC.
  • Other Variety: Astragalus nuttallianus var. austrinus (Small) Barneby
  • Another Variety: Astragalus nuttallianus var. imperfectus

Distribution and Habitat

This species is native to the southwestern and south-central United States. It can be found in states such as:

  • Alabama
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Idaho
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana

It thrives in habitats like juniper grasslands and valleys, often described as a common wildflower in the juniper grassland zone.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Astragalus nuttallianus is a forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that isn't a grass.
  • It is described as an erect plant that typically grows to a height of six to twelve inches.
  • The smallflowered milkvetch develops a bare stem and a thick crown.
  • It is not an evergreen.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some *Astragalus* species are referred to as "locoweed," particularly in North America. It is important to determine if the species is considered toxic to animals.

Ecological Role

  • This plant sometimes occurs alongside other species like *Amaranthus albus* (prostrate pigweed) and *Bromus tectorum* (cheatgrass).

Quirky Facts

  • The lower petal of the Milkvetch, known as the "keel," has different shapes depending on the specific name. In Milkvetch plants, the keel is rounded, while in Locoweed, it is pointed.

Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life: Provides articles and media about Astragalus nuttallianus.
  • Discover Life: Offers information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of the plant.
  • CalPhotos: Contains images of Astragalus nuttallianus.