White locoweed (original) (raw)

*** From Greek oxys, "sharp", and tropis, "keel", in reference to the beaked keels of the flowers, and Latin sericus, "of or pertaining to silk", in reference to it's silky pubescence.** *** Found on rocky prairie plains and hills, gravelly banks, open wooded hillsides, and stream valleys. Occurs in western Kansas.** *** This is a different plant than white loco (Sophora nuttalliana).** *** The plant grows in tufts or mats and is covered with dense hair that gives it a grayish appearance.** *** The petals are white or yellowish and the keels often have purple tips.** *** Poisonous to livestock. White locoweed is usually only eaten when other forage is unavailable. Horses are particularly susceptible, and will become addicted after consuming it. The toxic effects are cumulative. Symptoms include: depression, staggering, listlessness, incoordination, nervousness, dull staring, weight loss, and isolation, i.e. the animal acts "loco".** *** See also purple locoweed.**