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Description
Asclepias Eriocarpa, also known as Indian milkweed or woollypod milkweed, is a native perennial herb that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is commonly found in the western United States, particularly in California, Arizona, and Nevada. This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has an upright growth habit with thick, woolly stems. It produces clusters of small, fragrant flowers that are pale green or yellow in color and bloom from May to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Asclepiadaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
Asclepias Eriocarpa has unique physical characteristics that set it apart from other milkweeds. Its leaves are oval-shaped, about 2-4 inches long, and covered in fine hairs that give them a woolly texture. The stems are also covered in fine hairs, which help protect the plant from herbivores. The flowers are small, about 1/4 inch in diameter, and arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. They have a pleasant odor and are an important source of nectar for pollinators, especially monarch butterflies.
Care Guide
Asclepias Eriocarpa is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. Here are some tips to help your Indian milkweed thrive:
Water: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Be sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant, as it can thrive in poor soils. However, if you want to give it a boost, use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Indian milkweed prefers well-draining soils with average fertility. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils.
Sunlight: Asclepias Eriocarpa prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Indian milkweed is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues to watch out for:
Milkweed bugs: These insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids: These tiny insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Asclepias Eriocarpa is native to the western United States and is commonly found in dry, rocky habitats, including chaparral, sagebrush, and oak woodlands. It is well-adapted to drought and can tolerate hot, arid conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Asclepias Eriocarpa toxic to pets or humans?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant contain toxic chemicals that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.Q: Can Indian milkweed be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Asclepias Eriocarpa can be grown in containers as long as they are at least 12 inches deep and have adequate drainage.Q: How can I propagate Indian milkweed?
A: This plant can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be planted in the fall, while stem cuttings can be taken in the spring or summer.Q: How often should I prune my Indian milkweed?
A: Pruning is not necessary for this plant, but you can remove any dead or damaged stems in the spring to encourage new growth.
Related Plants
Here are some other milkweeds that are related to Asclepias Eriocarpa:
- Asclepias tuberosa
- Asclepias syriaca
- Asclepias curassavica
- Asclepias fascicularis
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Asclepias eriocarpa. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=aser
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Asclepias eriocarpa. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Asclepias-eriocarpa-(Woollypod-Milkweed)?srchcr=sc60e9cfb8a6b93
- Monarch Joint Venture. (n.d.). Asclepias eriocarpa. Retrieved from https://monarchjointventure.org/resources/milkweed/asclepias-eriocarpa
