Webber's Milk-Vetch
(Astragalus webberi )
Fabaceae

Photo Copyright 2002 Dean Wm. Taylor

Description: Low growing perennial with several red stems, 2-3/8 to 6-1/4 inches (6-16 cm) long emerging from matted root crown. Leaves silky pubescent 1 to 4 inches (2.5-10 cm) long; with 8-10 pairs of crowded leaflets. Flower heads round; petals 5, yellow, 1/16 inch (1-1.5 mm) long; stamens 5.

Identifying Features: 1. Round flower head.2. Leaves silky pubescent with one pair on middle of stem.3. 5 stamens.

Distribution: Plumas and El Dorado counties and western Nevada. Within public lands administered by the Eagle Lake Field Office on the east side of Sierra Valley about 3 miles southwest of Vinton. Also south of Hallelujah Junction and east of Constantia.

Habitat: Dry barren ground or open patches of volcanic ash in sagebrush scrub at 3,400 to 5,750 ft. (1036 to 1753 meters).

Flowering Period: May - June.

Similar Plants: Rather easily distinguished Ivesia

Status: BLM Sensitive, California Native Plant Society List 1B.2