CANADA MILKVETCH (Astragalus canadensis)
The red stems of this free-standing legume provide a nice contrast to its compound leaves, which have 15-31 leaflets (no tendrils). Off-white flowers occur in narrow spikes up to 6 inches (15 cm) long. Small, bean-shaped seeds are produced in 2-chambered pods and are an important food source for the larvae of a tiny weevil (Acanthoscelides aureoles). Unlike Cooper’s milkvetch, which looks similar, Canada milkvetch spreads by rhizomes and prefers moister habitats.
Flower Colour: white
Sun Exposure: full sun to part shade
Bloom Period: June – July
Height: 1 – 3 ft
Soil: moist