Pursh Milk-Vetch
Astragalus purshii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pursh Milk-Vetch (Astragalus purshii) 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
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pursh's milkvetch is a low-growing native wildflower that forms compact mounds with silvery-green foliage and purple pea-like flowers. This drought-tolerant perennial blooms from May through July and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established. It's well-suited for rock gardens, xeric landscapes, and naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pursh 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 unstructured for formal landscapes
- May look sparse or weedy to conventional gardeners
- Unknown leaf retention could mean untidy dormant appearance
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the spring and 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 Pursh Milk-Vetch fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.