Lotus Milk-vetch
Astragalus lotiflorus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Lotus Milk-vetch (Astragalus lotiflorus) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), 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"–18" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CO, IA, KS, MN and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lotus milk-vetch is a low-growing native wildflower with silvery-green foliage and clusters of small yellow or cream flowers in late spring and summer. This drought-tolerant perennial forms compact mounds that work well in rock gardens or naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lotus Milk-vetch 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 too wild and weedy for formal landscapes
- Small size makes it look like a weed rather than intentional planting
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and other pollinators during its blooming period from May through July.
Common questions
- How much sun does Lotus Milk-vetch need?
- Lotus Milk-vetch grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Lotus Milk-vetch bloom?
- Lotus Milk-vetch blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Lotus Milk-vetch native?
- Lotus Milk-vetch (Astragalus lotiflorus) is native to CO, IA, KS, MN and 9 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Lotus Milk-vetch toxic to dogs?
- Lotus Milk-vetch is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Lotus Milk-vetch toxic to cats?
- Lotus Milk-vetch is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Lotus Milk-vetch attract?
- Lotus Milk-vetch draws bees.
- Is Lotus Milk-vetch HOA-friendly?
- Lotus Milk-vetch takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Lotus Milk-vetch? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz