Troubled milkvetch facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Troubled milkvetch |
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|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Astragalus
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| Species: |
anxius
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Astragalus anxius is a special kind of plant. It is known as a milkvetch. People also call it the troubled milkvetch or Ash Valley milkvetch. This plant is very rare. It only grows in one specific area: northern Lassen County, California. You can find it in the volcanic soil of the Modoc Plateau. Scientists officially named this plant in 1992. There are only 6 known places where it grows. Some of these spots are in danger because livestock (like cows) might step on them.
Contents
What Does the Troubled Milkvetch Look Like?
Astragalus anxius is a plant that lives for many years. It grows in a flat, matted shape. Its thin stems are delicate. They are usually no longer than 20 centimeters (about 8 inches). The plant has a thin layer of wavy hairs all over it.
Its leaves are a few centimeters long. Each leaf is made up of several smaller leaflets. The plant's flowers grow in a cluster. This cluster is called an inflorescence. Each cluster has 7 to 15 flowers that look like peas.
Flowers and Fruit
The flowers of the troubled milkvetch have two colors. The lower petals are usually white. The upper petals, called banner petals, are purple. Sometimes they are white with purple veins.
After the flowers bloom, the plant produces fruit. This fruit is a hairy, oval-shaped pod. It is a type of legume. The pod can be up to half a centimeter long. When it dries, it becomes papery.
Where Does This Plant Live?
The troubled milkvetch is found only in northern Lassen County, California. This means it is endemic to that area. It likes to grow in the volcanic soil of the Modoc Plateau. This specific type of soil is important for its growth.
Why Is This Plant Rare?
There are only 6 known groups of Astragalus anxius plants. This makes it a very rare species. Some of these small groups are at risk. One of the main threats is livestock trampling. This happens when animals like cows or sheep walk over the plants. Their hooves can damage or destroy the delicate plants. Protecting these small areas is important to help this rare milkvetch survive.
