Semi-desert. Woodlands, grass and shrublands, openings. Spring.

Astragalus mollissimus is the most common Astragalus in the Four Corners area.  It is characterized by hairy flower stems; numerous, hairy, small, light green leaflets, usually arching; and long and narrow pink-purple flowers that have a pronounced backward flare at the upper tip of the rather small banner. Astragalus mollissimus blooms profusely in the early spring and where you find one plant you will usually find many.

"Mollissimus" is Latin for "very soft".  "Locoweed" refers to the plant’s effect on grazing animals, especially sheep.