Browse Milkvetch
Astragalus cibarius
Last reviewed: June 2026
Browse Milkvetch (Astragalus cibarius) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CO, ID, MT, NV and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Astragalus cibarius is a low-growing native legume that forms compact clumps with small compound leaves. It produces clusters of small flowers from May through July and thrives in sunny, dry conditions. This drought-tolerant perennial requires minimal care once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Browse Milkvetch takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very small stature may appear sparse in formal settings
- Unknown leaf retention could mean unsightly dormant periods
- Legume growth pattern may look irregular to conventional gardeners
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. As a legume, it also helps improve soil nitrogen for surrounding plants.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Browse Milkvetch fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.