Purple Locoweed
Astragalus mollissimus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Purple Locoweed (Astragalus mollissimus) 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.
Purple Locoweed is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a moderate level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CO, ID, KS and 8 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Purple locoweed is a low-growing native wildflower that produces clusters of purple pea-like flowers from May through July. This drought-tolerant perennial forms compact mounds and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Purple Locoweed 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.
- Contains toxic compounds that are harmful to livestock and potentially pets
- Common name includes 'weed' which creates negative perception
- Wild appearance may not meet formal landscaping standards
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and butterflies during the spring and summer blooming period. As a member of the legume family, it also helps fix nitrogen in the soil.
Common questions
- How much sun does Purple Locoweed need?
- Purple Locoweed grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Purple Locoweed bloom?
- Purple Locoweed blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Purple Locoweed native?
- Purple Locoweed (Astragalus mollissimus) is native to AZ, CO, ID, KS and 8 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Purple Locoweed toxic to dogs?
- Purple Locoweed is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Purple Locoweed toxic to cats?
- Purple Locoweed is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Purple Locoweed toxic to livestock?
- Purple Locoweed is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (moderate severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- What pollinators does Purple Locoweed attract?
- Purple Locoweed draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Purple Locoweed HOA-friendly?
- Purple Locoweed 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 Purple Locoweed? 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