silvery scurfpea

Pediomelum argophyllum (Pursh) J. Grimes

characteristics

Upright stemmed perennial with many branches; often growing in a somewhat tangled fashion. Attractive silvery foliage is due to a dense covering of fine white hairs. Leaves are 3 to 5 obovate leaflets. Small clusters of tiny blue-purple flowers bloom at the stem tip. In the fall stems break off to blow with the wind, like tumbleweed. A member of the pea family.

habitat

Fields, ditches and slopes.

uses

Durable green stems used for basket-making by North American aboriginals.