Diehl’s Milkvetch: A Rare Native Gem Worth Knowing About
Meet Diehl’s milkvetch (Astragalus flexuosus var. diehlii), a little-known native perennial that deserves a spot in the conversation about southwestern native plants. While you might not find this particular variety at your local nursery, understanding its story helps us appreciate the incredible diversity of native plants in our region.
What Makes Diehl’s Milkvetch Special
This perennial beauty belongs to the pea family and represents a unique variety of the flexible milkvetch. Like its relatives, Diehl’s milkvetch likely produces delicate, pea-like flowers and has the characteristic compound leaves that make milkvetches so distinctive in the landscape.
Where You’ll Find It Growing Wild
Diehl’s milkvetch calls the American Southwest home, naturally occurring in Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. This limited range makes it a true regional treasure that’s perfectly adapted to the unique conditions of the high desert and mountain regions.
A Word About Rarity
Here’s where things get interesting – and important. Diehl’s milkvetch has a conservation status that suggests it’s uncommon to rare in its native habitat. This means we need to be thoughtful stewards if we’re lucky enough to encounter this plant in the wild or consider it for our gardens.
If you’re interested in growing this particular variety, it’s crucial to source seeds or plants only from reputable native plant suppliers who can guarantee the material was obtained responsibly and legally. Never collect from wild populations, as this could harm already vulnerable plant communities.
Garden Potential and Growing Conditions
While specific growing information for this variety is limited, milkvetches as a group are generally:
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Lovers of well-draining soil
- Happy in full sun locations
- Low-maintenance perennials
- Adapted to poor soils
Based on its native range, Diehl’s milkvetch would likely thrive in USDA hardiness zones 4-8, making it suitable for many mountain and high desert gardens.
Why Consider Native Milkvetches
Even if Diehl’s milkvetch isn’t readily available, exploring other native milkvetches in your area can bring similar benefits to your landscape:
- Support for native pollinators and wildlife
- Nitrogen fixation that improves soil health
- Authentic regional character in garden design
- Low water requirements once established
The Bigger Picture
Plants like Diehl’s milkvetch remind us that our native flora includes countless specialized varieties and species that have evolved to thrive in very specific conditions. While we may not all be able to grow this particular plant, learning about it deepens our appreciation for the complexity and beauty of our regional ecosystems.
Consider supporting conservation efforts and native plant societies in Arizona, Colorado, and Utah – organizations working to protect rare plants like Diehl’s milkvetch ensure these botanical treasures will be around for future generations to discover and admire.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re drawn to the idea of growing milkvetches, check with local native plant societies or extension offices about other Astragalus species that might be more readily available and appropriate for your specific location. Many regions have their own native milkvetches that can provide similar ecological benefits without the conservation concerns.
