Status:
valid
Authors:
(Nutt.) A.Gray
Source:
ildis
Year:
1864
Citation Micro:
Proc. Amer. Acad. Arts6: 215 (1864)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000173861
Common Names
- Megacarpus's Milkvetch
- Megacarpus's Astragalus
- Megacarpus's Locoweed
Synonyms
- Tragacantha megacarpa (Nutt.) Kuntze [valid]
- Astragalus megacarpus parryi A.Gray [valid]
- Astragalus megacarpus prodigus (A.Gray) E.Sheld. [valid]
- Phaca megacarpa Nutt. ex Torr. & A.Gray [unknown]
- Phaca megacarpa Nutt. [valid]
- Astragalus megacarpus neeseae S.L.Welsh [valid]
Description
Astragalus megacarpus (also called Big-Fruited Milkvetch, among many other common names) is an annual plant in the family Fabaceae. It has a slender, erect stem and grows up to 0.6 m tall. It is native to western North America, and is found in dry habitats such as chaparral, woodlands, and grasslands.
Uses & Benefits
Astragalus megacarpus has been used as a traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, fever, and digestive problems. It is also used to boost the immune system, reduce stress, and improve circulation. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat fatigue and improve circulation.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Astragalus megacarpus has small, yellow flowers that bloom in summer. The seed pods are long and thin, containing several small, black seeds. The seedlings have two seed leaves and a taproot.
Cultivation and Propagation
Astragalus megacarpus is a low-growing perennial that can be propagated by seed or division. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It can be grown in a variety of climates, but is best suited for temperate regions. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate some frost. It should be watered regularly, but not too much, as it is susceptible to root rot. It can be propagated by seed or division.
Where to Find Astragalus megacarpus
Astragalus megacarpus is native to the western United States, and can be found in the states of California, Nevada, and Oregon. It is found in dry, rocky areas at elevations of 4,000 to 8,000 feet.
Astragalus megacarpus FAQ
What is the scientific name of Astragalus megacarpus?
Astragalus megacarpus
What is the common name of Astragalus megacarpus?
Large-Fruited Milkvetch
What is the natural habitat of Astragalus megacarpus?
Dry, rocky slopes and open woodlands in the western United States
Species in the Astragalus genus
Astragalus rumelicus,
Astragalus nevadensis,
Astragalus tymphresteus,
Astragalus alpinus,
Astragalus penduliflorus,
Astragalus anni-novi,
Astragalus austroargentinus,
Astragalus beatleyae,
Astragalus iselyi,
Astragalus moranii,
Astragalus neoburkartianus,
Astragalus neuquenensis,
Astragalus oxyphysopsis,
Astragalus phoenix,
Astragalus sanctorum,
Astragalus schinetorum,
Astragalus amnis-amissi,
Astragalus ampullarius,
Astragalus andersonii,
Astragalus anemophilus,
Astragalus anisus,
Astragalus applegatii,
Astragalus aquilonius,
Astragalus arequipensis,
Astragalus argentinus,
Astragalus argophyllus,
Astragalus aridus,
Astragalus arizonicus,
Astragalus arrectus,
Astragalus arthurii,
Astragalus asclepiadoides,
Astragalus asplundii,
Astragalus asymmetricus,
Astragalus atratus,
Astragalus austiniae,
Astragalus beathii,
Astragalus beckwithii,
Astragalus bellus,
Astragalus bernardinus,
Astragalus berteri,
Astragalus bicristatus,
Astragalus bisulcatus,
Astragalus bodinii,
Astragalus bolanderi,
Astragalus bourgovii,
Astragalus brackenridgei,
Astragalus brandegei,
Astragalus brauntonii,
Astragalus brazoensis,
Astragalus breweri,
Species in the Fabaceae family