Starveling Milkvetch: A Rare Western Native Worth Protecting
Meet the starveling milkvetch (Astragalus jejunus), a hardy little perennial that’s as tough as its name suggests. This unassuming native wildflower might not win any beauty contests, but it plays an important role in the ecosystems of the American West – and deserves a spot in the conversation about native gardening.
What Is Starveling Milkvetch?
Starveling milkvetch is a perennial member of the legume family, native to five western states: Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming. Like other milkvetches, it’s built to survive in some pretty harsh conditions, which is probably how it earned its rather unflattering common name. Don’t let that fool you though – this little survivor has its own quiet charm.
A Plant Worth Protecting
Here’s something important to know right up front: starveling milkvetch is considered vulnerable, with a Global Conservation Status of S3. This means it’s relatively rare throughout its range, with typically only 21 to 100 known occurrences. If you’re interested in growing this plant, it’s crucial to source it responsibly from reputable native plant nurseries or seed suppliers who don’t collect from wild populations.
Why Consider Growing Starveling Milkvetch?
You might wonder why anyone would want to grow a plant called starveling, but there are several compelling reasons:
- Native heritage: It’s a true western native, perfectly adapted to regional conditions
- Pollinator support: As a legume, it produces flowers that attract native bees and other beneficial insects
- Conservation value: Growing it in gardens helps preserve genetic diversity and supports conservation efforts
- Low maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care and water
Where Does It Fit in Your Landscape?
Starveling milkvetch isn’t your typical border perennial. It’s best suited for:
- Native plant gardens focused on regional flora
- Rock gardens and xeriscaping projects
- Restoration plantings in appropriate habitats
- Collections of rare or unusual native plants
This isn’t a plant for formal flower beds or high-visibility areas. Think of it more as a specialized addition for gardeners who appreciate the subtle beauty and ecological value of native wildflowers.
Growing Conditions and Care
True to its western origins, starveling milkvetch prefers:
- Sunlight: Full sun exposure
- Soil: Well-draining soils; avoid heavy clay or areas that stay wet
- Water: Drought-tolerant once established; minimal supplemental watering needed
- Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 4-7, matching its native range
Planting and Care Tips
Growing starveling milkvetch successfully requires understanding its natural habitat:
- Plant in spring after the last frost
- Ensure excellent drainage – this plant will not tolerate wet feet
- Water sparingly; overwatering is more likely to kill it than drought
- Avoid fertilizing, as most native plants prefer lean soils
- Be patient – native plants often establish slowly but are worth the wait
A Word of Caution and Encouragement
Because of its vulnerable conservation status, please only grow starveling milkvetch if you can source it ethically. Never collect seeds or plants from wild populations. Instead, look for reputable native plant nurseries or seed companies that propagate their own stock.
If you can’t find responsibly sourced starveling milkvetch, consider growing other native Astragalus species that are more common, or explore other native legumes that provide similar ecological benefits without the conservation concerns.
The Bottom Line
Starveling milkvetch may not be the showiest plant in your garden, but it represents something valuable – a piece of our native heritage that deserves protection and appreciation. For gardeners committed to native plant conservation and willing to provide the specialized conditions it needs, this little milkvetch offers a unique opportunity to contribute to biodiversity preservation right in your backyard.
Just remember: grow it responsibly, and you’ll be helping ensure that future generations can enjoy this tough little survivor too.
