Field Milk-Vetch
(Astragalus agrestis )
Fabaceae

Photo Copyright 1992 Gary Larson USDA NRCS

Description: Perennial herb with stems 1 1/2 - 12 inches (4-30cm) long. Leaves 3/4 - 4 inches (2-10cm) long, with 9-23 spear-shaped to pear-shaped leaflets. Inflorescence is head-like, 1/4 - 1 inch (.5-2.5cm) long, and densely packed with 5-15 flowers. Flowers have pink - purple to white petals, with a banner 5/8 - 7/8 inches (15-22mm) long. Fruit is egg-shaped, papery, covered with white hairs, and 1/4 - 3/8 inches (7-10mm) long, 1/8 inch (3-4mm) wide.

Distribution: Modoc Plateau; Madeline Plains.  North to OR, WA and Rocky Mountains

Habitat: Vernally-moist soil in silver sagebrush and basin big sagebrush flats. Elevation 4992 - 5280 feet.

Flowering Period: Blooms April - July.

Similar Plants:

Status: BLM Sensitive, California Native Plant Society List 2.2