Utah Milkvetch
Astragalus utahensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Utah Milkvetch (Astragalus utahensis) 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 × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
ID, NV, UT, WY
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Utah milkvetch is a compact native wildflower that forms neat, low mounds of silvery-green foliage. This drought-tolerant perennial produces clusters of small pea-like flowers in shades of purple or white during late spring and summer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Utah 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 look weedy or unkempt to conventional gardeners
- Unknown leaf retention could mean messy dormant appearance
- Wildflower appearance conflicts with formal landscaping expectations
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during its extended bloom period from May through July. 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 Utah Milkvetch fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.