Bessey’s Locoweed: A Rare Native Wildflower for Specialized Gardens
Meet Bessey’s locoweed (Oxytropis besseyi var. fallax), a perennial wildflower that’s as uncommon in gardens as it is in the wild. This native North American plant might not be on every gardener’s wish list, but for those interested in rare native species and specialized wildflower gardens, it offers a unique opportunity to support regional biodiversity.
What Makes Bessey’s Locoweed Special?
Bessey’s locoweed is a true native of the American West, specifically found in Montana and Wyoming. As a member of the legume family, this perennial forb plays an important ecological role in its native grassland and prairie habitats. Unlike woody shrubs or trees, this plant lacks significant woody tissue and maintains its perennating buds at or below ground level, helping it survive harsh winters.
The plant’s botanical classification places it in a specialized group within the Oxytropis genus, with the synonym Oxytropis nana var. fallax sometimes used in older botanical references.
Geographic Distribution and Rarity
This wildflower has a limited native range, growing naturally only in Montana and Wyoming. Its restricted distribution contributes to its Global Conservation Status of S5T3, indicating it requires careful consideration for conservation.
- Species observed
- No observations
Should You Plant Bessey’s Locoweed?
The decision to grow Bessey’s locoweed comes with important considerations:
- Rarity concerns: With its limited distribution and conservation status, this plant should only be grown using responsibly sourced materials
- Regional appropriateness: Best suited for gardens within or near its native range of Montana and Wyoming
- Specialized growing requirements: Like many native prairie plants, it likely has specific soil and climate needs
- Limited availability: You won’t find this at your typical garden center
Garden Applications
If you’re fortunate enough to live within its native range and can source it responsibly, Bessey’s locoweed works best in:
- Native plant gardens focused on local flora
- Prairie restoration projects
- Specialized wildflower collections
- Educational or conservation-focused landscapes
Growing Considerations
While specific growing information for this variety is limited, most Oxytropis species prefer:
- Well-draining soils typical of prairie environments
- Full sun exposure
- Minimal water once established
- Cool climate conditions matching their native range
A Word of Caution
The common name locoweed comes from the fact that many plants in this genus can be toxic to livestock when consumed in large quantities. While this isn’t typically a concern for home gardeners, it’s worth noting if you have grazing animals.
The Bottom Line
Bessey’s locoweed represents the fascinating diversity of North American native plants, but it’s not for every garden or every gardener. If you’re passionate about rare native species, live within its natural range, and can source it ethically, it could be a meaningful addition to a specialized native plant collection. For most gardeners, however, there are many more readily available native alternatives that can provide similar ecological benefits with less complexity.
Remember, the best native plant for your garden is one that naturally occurs in your local area and can be grown sustainably without impacting wild populations.