Grand Junction milkvetch facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Grand Junction milkvetch
Conservation status
Vulnerable (NatureServe)
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Rosids
Order:	Fabales
Family:	Fabaceae
Genus:	Astragalus
Species:	A. linifolius
Binomial name
Astragalus linifolius Osterh.
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The Grand Junction milkvetch (scientific name: Astragalus linifolius) is a special type of flowering plant. It belongs to the legume family, which includes peas and beans.

This plant is found only in one specific area. It grows naturally in Colorado, USA, especially on the Uncompahgre Plateau. You can find it in Delta, Mesa, and Montrose Counties. Most of these plants are near the city of Grand Junction. There are about 21 known places where this plant grows.

What Does the Grand Junction Milkvetch Look Like?

This plant is a perennial herb, which means it lives for more than two years. It can grow up to 50 centimeters (about 20 inches) tall.

In May and June, the Grand Junction milkvetch produces many beautiful white flowers. These flowers often have a hint of purple on their lower petals, called keels. After the flowers, the plant grows a red legume pod. This pod holds the plant's seeds.

Where Does the Grand Junction Milkvetch Live?

This plant likes to grow in certain types of soil. It prefers adobe and sandstone areas. You can often find it in pinyon-juniper woodlands or in areas with lots of sagebrush. These are dry, open habitats common in Colorado.

Special Abilities of This Plant

The Grand Junction milkvetch has a unique ability. It can absorb a natural element called selenium from the soil. This is an interesting fact about how plants interact with their environment.