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Description
Asclepias Solanoana, also known as Solano County milkweed, is a perennial plant that is native to California. This plant is part of the milkweed family, which is known for being a host plant for monarch butterflies. Asclepias Solanoana can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of 2-3 feet. It blooms in the summer and has beautiful, fragrant flowers that are pink to purple in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
Asclepias Solanoana has long, narrow leaves that are green and slightly hairy. The flowers are pink to purple in color and are fragrant. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of 2-3 feet.
Care Guide
Water
Asclepias Solanoana prefers well-draining soil and does not like to sit in water. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization
Asclepias Solanoana does not require fertilization. However, if you want to give it a boost, use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
Asclepias Solanoana prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it does not like to sit in water.
Sunlight
Asclepias Solanoana prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Asclepias Solanoana is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asclepias Solanoana is not prone to pests or diseases. However, it can attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Asclepias Solanoana is native to California and can be found in grasslands, chaparral, and oak woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Asclepias Solanoana a good plant for attracting butterflies?
A: Yes, Asclepias Solanoana is a host plant for monarch butterflies and is a great plant to attract butterflies to your garden.
Q: Can Asclepias Solanoana grow in containers?
A: Yes, Asclepias Solanoana can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I prune Asclepias Solanoana?
A: Asclepias Solanoana does not require pruning. However, if you want to keep the plant tidy, you can prune it back in the winter.
Q: How can I propagate Asclepias Solanoana?
A: Asclepias Solanoana can be propagated by seed or by dividing the plant in the spring.
Related Plants
– Asclepias fascicularis- Asclepias speciosa- Asclepias tuberosa
References
– “Asclepias solanoana.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/ascal-solano/ascelpias-solanoana- “Asclepias solanoana.” San Marcos Growers. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=4049
