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Description
Asclepias Aurea, commonly known as Golden Milkweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. This native plant can be found in the southeastern region of the United States, including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and has a spread of about 1 meter. It has a single stem that is hairy and erect. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong in shape. The flowers are yellow and arranged in umbels. The fruit is a follicle that contains numerous seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
Golden Milkweed is an attractive plant that can add color to any garden. The leaves are light green and can grow up to 20 cm long and 5 cm wide. The flowers are small and yellow, with a diameter of about 1 cm. They bloom in summer and fall and can attract butterflies and other pollinators. The plant produces a long, narrow fruit that splits open to release numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Golden Milkweed is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Golden Milkweed is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Golden Milkweed is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and milkweed bugs. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these problems, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene, remove any infected plant material, and treat with insecticides or fungicides as needed.
Habitat
Golden Milkweed is native to the southeastern region of the United States, where it can be found in wetlands, open woods, and along roadsides. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate both sun and shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Golden Milkweed be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Golden Milkweed can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Golden Milkweed attract butterflies?
A: Yes, Golden Milkweed is a host plant for the monarch butterfly.
Q: Can Golden Milkweed be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Golden Milkweed can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Q: Does Golden Milkweed need a lot of water?
A: Golden Milkweed prefers moist soil but can tolerate dry periods. Water deeply once a week or as needed.
Related Plants
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Milkweed)
- Asclepias syriaca (Common Milkweed)
- Asclepias curassavica (Bloodflower)
- Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Asclepias Aurea
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Asclepias Aurea
- Gardening Know How: Golden Milkweed Plant Care – Growing Golden Milkweed Native Plants
- Bonnie Plants: Golden Milkweed
