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Description
Asclepias Subverticillata, commonly known as Horsetail Milkweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family. This native North American plant is found in sandy or rocky soils in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands. The plant can grow up to 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide, with a deep taproot system that helps it to tolerate drought and strong winds.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Spermatophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Asclepiadaceae
Genus: Asclepias
Appearance
Asclepias Subverticillata has a slender stem that is covered in fine hairs. The leaves are narrow and arranged in whorls around the stem, with each whorl containing four to six leaves. The leaves are green and up to 3 inches long. In summer, the plant produces small, white to greenish-yellow flowers that are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem. The flowers are followed by elongated seed pods that split open to release seeds with silky hairs.
Care Guide
Water: Asclepias Subverticillata prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to help it establish a strong root system.
Fertilization: Horsetail Milkweed does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of compost or organic fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: The plant prefers sandy or rocky soils that are well-drained. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but needs good drainage to prevent root rot.
Sunlight: Asclepias Subverticillata prefers full sun and can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Horsetail Milkweed is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, spider mites, aphids, and milkweed bugs can occasionally infest the plant. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Asclepias Subverticillata is native to North America and is found in sandy or rocky soils in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands. The plant can grow in a variety of soil types and can tolerate drought and strong winds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Asclepias Subverticillata toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant contain cardiac glycosides that can be toxic if ingested. The plant is not recommended for human or animal consumption.
Q: How can I attract butterflies to my garden with Asclepias Subverticillata?
A: The plant is a host plant for monarch and queen butterflies. By planting Horsetail Milkweed in your garden, you can attract these butterflies to lay their eggs on the plant and provide food for their caterpillars.
Q: Can Asclepias Subverticillata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers if the container is large enough to accommodate the deep taproot system. Use a well-draining soil mix and water the plant regularly.
Q: When is the best time to prune Asclepias Subverticillata?
A: The plant does not require regular pruning, but you can remove dead or damaged stems in the spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Milkweed)
- Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed)
- Asclepias curassavica (Tropical Milkweed)
- Asclepias syriaca (Common Milkweed)
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASSU2
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/asclepias_subverticillata.shtml
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/milkweed/horsetail-milkweed-information.htm
