Asclepias Nummularia
Contents
Description
Asclepias Nummularia, commonly known as the roundleaf milkweed or coinleaf milkweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to the southern United States and can be found in various habitats such as prairies, savannas, and open woodlands. Asclepias Nummularia is a valued plant for its ecological and ornamental value. The plant produces clusters of small, fragrant, pale pink flowers during the summer, which are followed by attractive pods that contain seeds with silky hairs for wind dispersal.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
Asclepias Nummularia has a unique appearance with round, coin-shaped leaves that are hairy and measure up to 2.5 inches in diameter. The leaves are arranged opposite to each other along the stem and have a bluish-green color. The plant can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and has a clumping growth habit. The flowers are small, pale pink, and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The pods produced by Asclepias Nummularia are also unique in appearance, with a round shape and a bumpy texture. The pods measure up to 2 inches in length and contain seeds with silky hairs.
Care Guide
Asclepias Nummularia is relatively easy to care for and does not require much maintenance once established. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Asclepias Nummularia prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: Asclepias Nummularia does not require much fertilization. A light application of organic fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.- Soil: Asclepias Nummularia prefers well-draining, sandy soil with a slightly acidic pH. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with organic matter before planting.- Sunlight: Asclepias Nummularia prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.- Hardiness Zones: Asclepias Nummularia is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asclepias Nummularia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and milkweed bugs. Regular inspections and insecticidal soap can help control these pests. Root rot can occur if the soil is too wet, so be sure to provide well-draining soil.
Habitat
Asclepias Nummularia is native to the southern United States, including Florida, Georgia, and Louisiana. It can be found in various habitats such as prairies, savannas, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Asclepias Nummularia toxic to humans or pets?
A: Yes, all parts of Asclepias plants are toxic if ingested. Contact with the sap can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
Q: Can Asclepias Nummularia attract butterflies?
A: Yes, Asclepias Nummularia is a host plant for the monarch butterfly and can attract other pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.
Q: How can I propagate Asclepias Nummularia?
A: Asclepias Nummularia can be propagated by seed or division. Seeds can be sown in the fall or stratified for 4-6 weeks before planting in the spring. Division should be done in the spring or fall.
Q: How long does Asclepias Nummularia live?
A: Asclepias Nummularia is a perennial plant that can live for several years with proper care.
Related Plants
– Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly weed)- Asclepias syriaca (Common milkweed)- Asclepias curassavica (Tropical milkweed)- Asclepias incarnata (Swamp milkweed)- Asclepias speciosa (Showy milkweed)
References
– “Asclepias Nummularia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c802.- “Asclepias Nummularia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASNU2.- “Monarch Watch.” Monarch Watch, monarchwatch.org/milkweed/prop.htm.
