Asclepias Pedicellata

Description

Asclepias Pedicellata is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the milkweed family, Asclepiadaceae. The plant is native to the southeastern United States and is commonly found in wetlands, along the margins of streams, and in moist forests. The plant is also known as white swamp milkweed or long-stalked milkweed because of its long pedicels.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Asclepias Pedicellata plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are white and are borne in clusters at the end of long pedicels. The flowers have a sweet fragrance and are attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. The fruit of the Asclepias Pedicellata plant is a long, narrow pod that splits open when ripe to release the seeds, which are attached to silky hairs that allow them to be dispersed by the wind.

Care Guide

The Asclepias Pedicellata plant requires a moderate amount of care and attention to grow healthy and strong. Here are some care tips:

• Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
• Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Asclepias Pedicellata plant is relatively free of pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil.

Habitat

The Asclepias Pedicellata plant is native to the southeastern United States and is commonly found in wetlands, along the margins of streams, and in moist forests. The plant prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade.

Question and Answer

• Q: Is the Asclepias Pedicellata plant toxic?
  A: Yes, the plant is mildly toxic if ingested and can cause digestive upset in humans and animals.
• Q: How do I propagate the Asclepias Pedicellata plant?
  A: The plant can be propagated from seed, but it can also be propagated from stem cuttings or by division in the spring.
• Q: Can the Asclepias Pedicellata plant be grown in containers?
  A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with adequate space and moisture.
• Q: How do I prune the Asclepias Pedicellata plant?
  A: The plant does not require pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can promote continued blooming and prevent self-seeding.

Related Plants

• Asclepias incarnata
• Asclepias tuberosa
• Asclepias syriaca
• Asclepias curassavica

References

• USDA Plants Database: Asclepias Pedicellata
• Missouri Botanical Garden: Asclepias Pedicellata
• Gardening Know How: Growing White Swamp Milkweed
• Birds and Blooms: White Swamp Milkweed