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Platte River milkvetch
Scientific Name: Astragalus plattensis
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Astragalus plattensis
Also known as Platte River milkvetch or Platte River ground-plum, Astragalus plattensis is a perennial forb/herb belonging to the milkvetch family.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant is sometimes referred to as "sweet-scented and very palatable to livestock," so be mindful if your pets graze on plants.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Astragalus plattensis Nutt.
- Common Names: Platte River milkvetch, Platte River ground-plum, Platte River milk-vetch, Platte milkvetch.
- Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
- Kingdom: Plantae (Plants)
- Rank: Species
- Synonyms:
- Astragalus plattensis Torr. & A.Gray
- Astragalus plattensis Nutt. ex Torr. & A. Gray
- Tragacantha plattensis (Torr. & A.Gray) Kuntze
Distribution and Habitat
- The Platte River milkvetch is associated with the Platte River Valley in Nebraska.
- It is found on rocky prairies and hillsides.
Morphological Characteristics
- Stems: Decumbent or spreading, 2 to 16 inches long, thinly to densely shiny-hairy.
- Leaves: Alternate.
Ecological Role
- The plant is documented in areas such as the Upper North Platte River drainage in Wyoming.
Growing Conditions
- This milkvetch variety can withstand harsh temperatures and is able to be grown outdoors year round, and doesn't fear cold weather.
- If in a particularly windy climate it is suggested you secure the plant.
Related Species
- Wind River milkvetch (Astragalus pectinatus)
- Narrowleaf milkvetch (Astragalus plattensis)
- Broad-keeled milkvetch (Astragalus platytropis)
Further Information
- Flora of North America (FNA)
- Discover Life
- Dave's Garden
- Plant database for Platte River milkvetch Natives Fabaceae