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woollypod milkvetch
Scientific Name: Astragalus purshii var. pumilio
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Woollypod Milkvetch (Astragalus purshii)
Astragalus purshii, commonly known as woollypod milkvetch or Pursh's milkvetch, is a perennial herb belonging to the Pea family (Fabaceae).
Considerations for Pets
- The plant is also known as Woollypod Locoweed.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Astragalus purshii Dougl. ex Hook.
- Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms:
- Pursh loco
- Subspecies: Astragalus purshii Douglas ex Hook. var. purshii
- Alternative Scientific Names: Includes references to Astragalus purshii var. concinnus and Astragalus purshii var lectulus.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to much of western North America.
- Found at high elevations, such as along the Dalles Mt. Road.
- Observed in locations such as the Cowiche Canyon uplands (Scenic Drive) and west of Blue Canyon, Tooele County, Utah.
Morphological Characteristics
- Perennial herb with a tuft from a woody base.
- Stems can reach up to 6 inches tall.
- Stems and leaves are covered with very fine, wavy, entangled silver or gray hair.
Ecological Role
- Frequently co-occurs with Astragalus peckii.
Traditional Uses
- Decoction of the whole plant was historically used as a wash for the head, hair, and whole body.
Resources and Further Information
- EDDMapS (Early Detection & Distribution Mapping System): https://www.eddmaps.org/
- Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astragalus purshii.