Oxytropis sericea - Silky Locoweed

Silky Locoweed is a long-lived wildflower with silvery-green, fern-like foliage that adds striking texture to any space. Clusters of creamy-yellow, pea-like flowers bloom from early to mid-summer, filling the air with a sweet fragrance that attracts butterflies, native bees, and bumblebees, which pollinate its flowers. Like all locoweeds, it is toxic to livestock, and while its heavy seeds stay close to the mother plant, it should be planted with care in areas where grazing animals are present. For an extended floral display, pair it with other Oxytropis species in hot, dry, sunny spaces.

A hardy, drought-tolerant perennial, Silky Locoweed thrives in dry prairies, and foothills, and makes an excellent choice for xeriscapes, rock gardens, and urban pollinator gardens. Deep-rooted and highly adaptable, it excels in self-sustaining landscapes and erosion control in tough growing conditions. Highly resistant to grazing, its toxicity and bitter taste deter herbivores.