The habitat is made up of stark, white flats, and washes in a wetland area that is fed by seeps and springs and undergoes evaporation, leaving behind a hard mineral crust on the land.

Other plants occurring in the area include saltgrass (Distichlis spicata), shadscale (Atriplex confertifolia), and alkali goldenbush (Isocoma acradenia).

[2] Astragalus phoenix is a perennial herb forming a flat cushion or mat up to 0.5 metres (1.6 ft) wide.

Alterations in the hydrology of the region occur when pumping or other processes affects the flow of the springs and seeps.

[3] Road construction, mining operations, and agriculture reduced the plant's numbers.