Indian Milkvetch (Astragalus aboriginorum)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Astragalus aboriginorum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Root - cooked. Collected by the Indians in spring as an article of food. This plant is very similar to several poisonous species, so great caution is urged to ensure that the plant is identified properly. — Collected by the Indians in spring as an article of food.; This plant is very similar to several poisonous species, so great caution is urged to ensure that the plant is identified properly.

Habitat & North American Range

Alpine and sub-alpine knolls, scree and open places in valleys and plains, especially on limestone. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)