Ethnobotany

1. Rattlepod (Coast Milkvetch) – Astragalus trichopodus vars. lonchus & trichopodus
(as-TRAG-a-lus tri-ko-PO-dus LON-kus)
Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
Native to: Coastal S. CA to Baja, including the Channel Islands; common on coastal bluffs, coastal
hills and in fields below 1000' elevation.
Growth characteristics: clumping perennial mature height: 2-3 ft. mature width: 2-3 ft.
Bushy perennial with many branches. Shape may be upright (var. tichopodus) or sprawling (var.
lonchus). Leaves are ‘pea-like’ with many small leaflets. Drought deciduous.
Blooms/fruits: Blooms in spring, generally Feb. to June. Flowers are creamy white, ‘pea-like’ on
stalks above the foliage. Quite showy – many flowers. Fruits are pods. Seeds toxic if eaten.
Uses in the garden: Most useful as a habitat plant to attract wildlife. Very appropriate for water-
wise gardens. An interesting plant in mixed beds.
Sensible substitute for: Non-native plants in pea family like Brooms.
Attracts: Excellent butterfly habitat, providing larval (caterpillar) food for Blue butterflies, including
the endangered Palos Verdes Blue. Also good bird habitat: provides cover and seeds for food.
Requirements:
Element Requirement
Sun Full sun (coast) to partial shade (hot gardens)
Soil Well-drained
Water Little to no summer water; let dry out between waterings
Fertilizer None needed
Other
Management: Needs little care once established.
Propagation: from seed: soak in warm water or scratch seed coat before planting (fall-spring)
Plant/seed sources (see list for source numbers): 1, 2, 13 6/22/07
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