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Description
Asclepias Vestita, also known as Woolly Milkweed, is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. This plant is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woods. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to three feet tall and two feet wide. The plant has gray-green leaves and produces clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers in the summer. The flowers are followed by long, narrow seed pods that split open when ripe, releasing hundreds of silky-haired seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
The leaves of Asclepias Vestita are lance-shaped, hairy, and about 2-6 inches long. The plant produces clusters of small, pinkish-white flowers that are about 1/4 inch wide. The flowers have a pleasant, sweet fragrance and are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant also produces long, narrow seed pods that are about 4-8 inches long and contain hundreds of silky-haired seeds.
Care Guide
Asclepias Vestita is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Asclepias Vestita prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Asclepias Vestita is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asclepias Vestita is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Fungal diseases: These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Asclepias Vestita is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to plant Asclepias Vestita?
A: The best time to plant Asclepias Vestita is in the spring or fall.
Q: How often should I water Asclepias Vestita?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.
Q: Is Asclepias Vestita a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Asclepias Vestita is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Asclepias Vestita be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Asclepias Vestita can be grown in a container, but make sure it has enough room to grow.
Related Plants
- Asclepias tuberosa
- Asclepias syriaca
- Asclepias curassavica
- Asclepias incarnata
References
- “Asclepias vestita Hook. – Woolly Milkweed.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, accessed 28 Sept. 2021, https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:9424-2.
- Dirr, Michael A. Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press, 2011.
- “Asclepias Vestita.” Missouri Botanical Garden. accessed 28 Sept. 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281773&isprofile=0&.
