milk vetch
Definition
Noun: 1. A plant of the genus Astragalus: Any of numerous, often low-growing, flowering plants belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae). They are characterized by typically having compound leaves and pea-like flowers, and many species are found in dry or mountainous regions.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The rocky hillside was dotted with purple-flowered milk vetch.
- Several species of milk vetch are important forage plants for livestock.
- Botanists are studying a rare milk vetch found only in this valley.
Advanced Usage
- Ecological Role: Many milk vetch species are nitrogen-fixers, improving soil quality.
- Toxicity Note: Some species, like the locoweeds, are known to be poisonous to animals if consumed in large quantities.
Variants and Related Words
- Astragalus (n): The scientific genus name for milk vetch plants.
- Locoweed (n): A common name for certain toxic species of milk vetch that can cause neurological disease ("locoism") in livestock.
Synonyms
- Astragalus (when used as a common name)
- Goat's-thorn (a name for some species)
Notes on Meaning
The term "milk vetch" refers specifically to plants within the Astragalus genus. It is a broad common name and does not refer to a single plant but to a large group with varying characteristics. Some are beneficial, while others are problematic for agriculture.
Noun
-
any of various plants of the genus Astragalus
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ đồng nghĩa
Từ chứa "milk vetch"
