Contents
Description
Asclepias Labriformis, commonly known as the shore milkweed or sand milkweed, is a species of milkweed native to North America. It is commonly found in sandy habitats, including coastal dunes, barrier islands, and lake shores. The plant is an important food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars and other insects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
The Asclepias Labriformis plant grows up to 1-3 feet tall, with a spread of 1-2 feet. The stem is typically green or purple, with a white milky sap. The leaves are a bright green color, narrow, and elongated, with a length of 3-6 inches and a width of 0.25-0.5 inches. The flowers are small, pink, or white, and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The fruit is a green pod that turns brown and splits open when ripe, releasing numerous small seeds equipped with silky hairs that allow them to be carried by the wind.
Care Guide
Asclepias Labriformis thrives in sandy and well-drained soil, and is suitable for planting in hardiness zones 4-9. The plant requires full sun exposure, and should be watered regularly during the growing season, especially during dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary, but can be done with a balanced fertilizer in the spring. The plant can tolerate drought and salt spray, making it an excellent choice for coastal landscaping.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asclepias Labriformis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while poor drainage can cause crown rot. Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Asclepias Labriformis is native to North America, and is commonly found in sandy habitats, including coastal dunes, barrier islands, and lake shores. The plant is also tolerant of salt spray and drought, making it an excellent choice for coastal landscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Asclepias Labriformis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Q: Is Asclepias Labriformis toxic to animals?
A: Yes, the plant contains cardiac glycosides that can be toxic to animals if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Does Asclepias Labriformis attract butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant is an important food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars and other insects.
Q: When is the best time to plant Asclepias Labriformis?
A: The plant can be planted in the spring or fall, but the best time is in the spring after the last frost.
Related Plants
- Asclepias tuberosa
- Asclepias syriaca
- Asclepias curassavica
- Asclepias incarnata
References
- “Asclepias Labriformis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin. Accessed 17 August 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASLA4
- “Asclepias Labriformis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 17 August 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c740
- “Asclepias Labriformis.” USDA NRCS. Accessed 17 August 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ASLA4
