Status:
valid
Authors:
Bunge
Source:
ildis
Year:
1868
Citation Micro:
Mém. Acad. Imp. Sci. Saint Pétersbourg, Sér. 7, 11(16): 120 (1868)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000190004
Common Names
- Cuscuta Milkvetch
- Cuscuta Astragalus
- Cuscuta Locoweed
Synonyms
- Astragalus cuscutae mucronatus Rzazade [unknown]
- Tragacantha cuscutae (Bunge) Kuntze [valid]
Description
Astragalus cuscutae (also called Dodder Milkvetch, among many other common names) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the western United States and Canada. It has a short, stout stem with small, white flowers and a long, narrow seed pod. It grows in dry, rocky soils in open grasslands and shrublands.
Uses & Benefits
Astragalus cuscutae is used as a medicinal herb to treat a variety of ailments, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and inflammation. It is also used as a natural diuretic and to boost the immune system. It can be used as an ornamental plant in gardens and is known for its drought tolerance.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Astragalus cuscutae is a pink-purple pea-like flower with a yellow center. The seed is a small, round, black seed. The seedling is a small, green, oval-shaped plant.
Cultivation and Propagation
Astragalus cuscutae is a perennial herbaceous plant that can be cultivated in well-drained soils in full sun or partial shade. Propagation is usually done by seed, but division of the rootstock can also be done in spring or autumn.
Where to Find Astragalus cuscutae
Astragalus cuscutae is native to western North America. It can be found in dry, open areas, such as prairies, meadows, and roadsides. It is available from nurseries and garden centers.
Astragalus cuscutae FAQ
What is the scientific name of Astragalus cuscutae?
Astragalus cuscutae
What is the common name of Astragalus cuscutae?
Cuscuta Milkvetch
What is the natural habitat of Astragalus cuscutae?
Dry, rocky slopes and hillsides
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