Freckled Milkvetch
Astragalus lentiginosus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
SD
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Freckled milkvetch is a low-growing native perennial that forms compact mounds of silvery-green foliage. It produces clusters of purple or white pea-like flowers from May through July, followed by inflated seed pods.
In an HOA neighborhood
Freckled 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.
- Appears weedy and unkempt to most HOAs
- Seed pods can look messy
- May be confused with invasive vetches
Wildlife value
This plant attracts native bees and butterflies during its extended blooming period. As a legume, it also helps fix nitrogen in the soil.
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 Freckled Milkvetch fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.