​Newberry’s Milkvetch,Astragalus newberryi var. newberryi,Pea Family (Fabaceae)

Found in sandy, dry areas
Photo taken in April in Red Wash Canyon

The Astragalus genus is very large and individual species are usually identified by their seed pod rather than their flower or leaves; several varieties of Milkvetch grow in this area. This beautiful little plant grows low to the ground with five to eleven silky leaflets. Flowers are showy, bright pink/purple with a lighter center and are over one inch long. Seed pods are curved and covered in silky, white hairs. Specific uses for this species are unknown, but other species in the genus have uses. The plant is considered poisonous, especially to stock and horses, however medicinally; a decoction of whole plant used as a wash for the head, hair and whole body, plant used for stomach disorders, as a gargle for sore throats, poultice of crushed leaves applied to lame back, applied as an ointment for animals with urination troubles, roots chewed as a cathartic, infusion of root used as a wash for sores and as a wash for granulated eyelids and toothaches, also plants used as a ceremonial emetic, seeds used for food, and pounded seeds mixed with other foods and used as a spice. Source.

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