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Description
Asclepias Lemmonii, also known as Lemmon’s Milkweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is native to the western United States and can be found in California, Nevada, and Arizona. This plant has a unique and beautiful appearance, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Asclepiadaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
Asclepias Lemmonii can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its leaves are narrow and elongated, measuring up to 8 inches long and 1 inch wide, and are a grayish-green color. The flowers of this plant are small and white, measuring about 1/4 inch in diameter, and are arranged in clusters. The flowers bloom from May to August and are followed by long, narrow seed pods that contain seeds with silky hairs.
Care Guide
Asclepias Lemmonii is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the winter.- Fertilization: Asclepias Lemmonii does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy or rocky soil.- Sunlight: Asclepias Lemmonii thrives in full sun or partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asclepias Lemmonii is relatively pest-free, but it can be affected by aphids or milkweed bugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by removing the affected leaves. This plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation.
Habitat
Asclepias Lemmonii is native to the western United States and can be found in California, Nevada, and Arizona. It grows in dry, rocky areas and can be found in chaparral, sagebrush, and desert habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Asclepias Lemmonii a good plant for butterfly gardens?
A: Yes, Asclepias Lemmonii is a great plant for butterfly gardens. It is a host plant for the monarch butterfly and other butterfly species.
Q: Can Asclepias Lemmonii grow in containers?
A: Yes, Asclepias Lemmonii can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: Does Asclepias Lemmonii have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, some Native American tribes used the roots of Asclepias Lemmonii to treat respiratory ailments and gastrointestinal issues.
Q: Can Asclepias Lemmonii tolerate frost?
A: Asclepias Lemmonii is sensitive to frost and should be protected if temperatures drop below freezing.
Related Plants
– Asclepias fascicularis- Asclepias tuberosa- Asclepias speciosa- Asclepias syriaca- Asclepias curassavica
References
– “Asclepias Lemmonii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASLE2- “Asclepias Lemmonii.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/asclepias-lemmonii- “Asclepias Lemmonii.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/asclepias-lemmonii-growing-profile-4846848
