SafePlants

Kremmling Milkvetch (Astragalus osterhoutii)

The Kremmling milkvetch, also known as Osterhout's milkvetch, is a rare plant species endemic to a specific region of Colorado. This fact sheet provides information about its taxonomy, distribution, and ecological role.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Astragalus osterhoutii M.E. Jones
• Common Names: Kremmling milkvetch, Osterhout's milk-vetch, Kremmling Osterhout milkvetch

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Kingdom: Plantae
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea family)
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Plant Symbol: ASOS
• Synonyms: None explicitly stated, but the text lists several other Astragalus species, including Astragalus humillimus and Astragalus debequaeus.

Distribution and Habitat

• The Kremmling Osterhout milkvetch is found in an area north and west of Kremmling, Colorado, stretching east to Parshall.
• It is endemic to Middle Park near Kremmling, Colorado.

Ecological Role

• The plant is listed as federally endangered, indicating its vulnerable status in its natural habitat.
• It is considered endemic, meaning it is unique to a specific geographic location.
• Mentioned as being subject to rangeland noxious weed management programs, although not directly identified as a noxious weed itself.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a forb/herb, a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• It is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for more than two years.
• Described as having many slender and erect stems.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Primary pollinators include Apis mellifera, Bombus sp., and Osmia sp.

Further Information

• USDA NRCS Colorado contributed to the plant fact sheet.
• Additional information can be found on Garden Guides.
• Pronunciation available on pronouncekiwi.
• Colorado Rare Plant Conservation Strategy on ResearchGate.
• Species information is available on Wikimedia: Astragalus osterhoutii