SafePlants

Cream Milkvetch (Astragalus racemosus)

Astragalus racemosus, commonly known as cream milkvetch, is a plant belonging to the Fabaceae (Pea) family. This perennial herb is native to Texas and other states.

Considerations for Pets

• The common name "alkali poisonvetch" suggests a potential for toxicity.

Considerations for Children

• The common name "alkali poisonvetch" suggests a potential for toxicity.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Astragalus racemosus Pursh
• Common Names: Cream milkvetch, cream milk-vetch, alkali poisonvetch, alkali milkvetch, racemose milkvetch, creamy milkvetch, creamy loco, alkali poisonvetch
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species, Variety
• Synonyms: Astragalus racemosus var. longisetus M.E. Jones
• USDA Symbol: ASRA2

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Texas and other states.
• Found in locations such as Badlands National Park, Jackson County, South Dakota.
• Prefers dry to mesic dry soil moisture.

Morphological Characteristics

• Perennial herb with a lifespan of multiple years.
• Grows to a height of approximately 2 feet.
• Flowers are cream-colored and bloom in May and June.
• Mature plants produce small, cream or pale yellow flowers in numerous clusters.
• Some species have cream to whitish flowers.

Quirky Facts

• The text mentions "Shokubutsu Shower cream Chinese Milk Vetch", suggesting a connection between milkvetch and personal care products, particularly in Thailand. "Shokubutsu" means 'plant' in Japanese.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Astragalus racemosus exhibits selenium bioaccumulation.

Further Information

• Discover Life provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Astragalus racemosus.
• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database provides photos and information
• Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An illustrated flora of the northern United States.