Contents
Description
Asclepias Incarnata, also known as Milkweed, Butterfly weed, and Swamp milkweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant of the Asclepiadaceae family. It is native to North America and grows in wetlands, meadows, and along rivers and streams. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a cluster of pink to mauve flowers blooming from June to September. The flowers are fragrant, and their nectar attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The plant also serves as a host for monarch butterfly larvae.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Asclepiadaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
Asclepias Incarnata has a vertical growth habit with lance-shaped leaves that are 3-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are dark green and arranged oppositely on the stem. The stems are stout and erect, and they have a milky sap that can be toxic if ingested. The flowers grow in clusters at the top of the stem and have a five-lobed corolla with a crown-like structure in the center. The flowers are typically pink to mauve, but they can also be white or red. The plant produces elongated seed pods that split open to release silky seeds that are carried by the wind.
Care Guide
Asclepias Incarnata is easy to grow and care for, making it a great addition to any garden.
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but adding compost or organic matter to the soil can improve its growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Asclepias Incarnata is hardy in zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asclepias Incarnata is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be affected by some common issues.
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and use a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Asclepias Incarnata is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, meadows, and along rivers and streams. It prefers moist soil and full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant is an important food source for monarch butterfly larvae, and its nectar attracts a variety of pollinators.
Question and Answer
- Q: Is Asclepias Incarnata poisonous?
- Q: Can Asclepias Incarnata grow in containers?
- Q: How do I propagate Asclepias Incarnata?
-
-
-
-
- Q: How long does it take for Asclepias Incarnata to bloom?
A: Yes, the plant contains a milky sap that can be toxic if ingested.
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough and have good drainage.
A: The plant can be propagated by seeds or by dividing the root ball in spring.
A: The plant typically blooms from June to September, depending on the climate and growing conditions.
Related Plants
- Asclepias syriaca
- Asclepias tuberosa
- Asclepias curassavica
- Asclepias verticillata
References
- “Asclepias Incarnata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 October 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c580
- “Swamp Milkweed.” National Wildlife Federation. Accessed 12 October 2021. https://www.nwf.org/NativePlantFinder/Plants/1650
- “Asclepias Incarnata.” University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. Accessed 12 October 2021. https://arboretum.wisc.edu/trees-plants/asclepias-incarnata/
