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Description
Asclepias Rubra, commonly known as Red Milkweed, is a beautiful perennial plant native to North America. It belongs to the Asclepiadoideae subfamily of the Apocynaceae family, which includes other milkweeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
Asclepias Rubra grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has reddish stems and oblong leaves that are 2-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are reddish-pink and bloom from May to August. Each flower cluster has up to 20 flowers, and each flower has five petals that form a crown-like shape. The flowers produce a sweet fragrance that attracts butterflies and bees.
Care Guide
Asclepias Rubra is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water deeply once a week, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil become waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Asclepias Rubra doesn’t need much fertilizer. You can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.
- Soil: Asclepias Rubra prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or sand to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Asclepias Rubra prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Asclepias Rubra is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asclepias Rubra is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some potential issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Milkweed bugs: These insects feed on the seeds and can reduce seed production. Handpick them or use insecticidal soap.
- Milkweed tussock moth: The caterpillars of this moth can defoliate the plant. Handpick them or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT).
- Fungal diseases: Asclepias Rubra can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. Avoid overhead watering and use fungicides if necessary.
Habitat
Asclepias Rubra grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, savannas, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is also drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Asclepias Rubra poisonous?
A: Yes, Asclepias Rubra contains cardiac glycosides that can be toxic if ingested by humans or animals. However, it is not usually fatal and is only a concern if large amounts are consumed.
Q: How can I propagate Asclepias Rubra?
A: Asclepias Rubra can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Collect seeds in the fall and plant them in the spring after stratification. Take stem cuttings in the summer and root them in moist soil.
Q: Can I grow Asclepias Rubra in a container?
A: Yes, Asclepias Rubra can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and has good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly.
Q: Does Asclepias Rubra attract butterflies?
A: Yes, Asclepias Rubra is a host plant for monarch butterflies and attracts other butterfly species as well. The flowers provide nectar for adult butterflies.
Related Plants
- Asclepias Syriaca (Common Milkweed)
- Asclepias Incarnata (Swamp Milkweed)
- Asclepias Tuberosa (Butterfly Weed)
- Asclepias Curassavica (Tropical Milkweed)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Asclepias Rubra. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277926&isprofile=0&pt=7
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021, May 12). Asclepias Rubra. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/fp690
- USDA NRCS. (n.d.). Asclepias Rubra. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ASRU3
