Silver-Leaved Milkvetch
Astragalus argophyllus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Silver-Leaved Milkvetch (Astragalus argophyllus) 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
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Astragalus argophyllus is a low-growing native milkvetch with silvery-gray foliage and small clusters of flowers from May through July. This compact perennial forms neat mounds that stay under a foot tall and wide, requiring minimal water once established. It thrives in full sun and poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping.
In an HOA neighborhood
Silver-Leaved 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.
- May appear too wild or weedy for formal landscapes
- Unfamiliar plant that HOAs might not recognize as intentional landscaping
- Small stature could be perceived as unmaintained ground cover
Wildlife value
This plant provides nectar for native bees during its extended blooming period from late spring through summer.
Common questions
- How much sun does Silver-Leaved Milkvetch need?
- Silver-Leaved Milkvetch grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Silver-Leaved Milkvetch bloom?
- Silver-Leaved Milkvetch blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Silver-Leaved Milkvetch native?
- Silver-Leaved Milkvetch (Astragalus argophyllus) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Silver-Leaved Milkvetch toxic to dogs?
- Silver-Leaved Milkvetch is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Silver-Leaved Milkvetch toxic to cats?
- Silver-Leaved Milkvetch is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Silver-Leaved Milkvetch attract?
- Silver-Leaved Milkvetch draws bees.
- Is Silver-Leaved Milkvetch HOA-friendly?
- Silver-Leaved Milkvetch 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 Silver-Leaved Milkvetch? 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