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Description
Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae, also known as Ruth’s Tall Milkweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asclepiadaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and is commonly found in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Asclepiadaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a spread of 3 feet. The leaves are long and narrow, with a length of up to 10 inches and a width of up to 2 inches. The flowers are small and clustered, with a diameter of about 1 cm. The flowers are usually light pink or lavender in color, but can also be white or yellow. The plant blooms from May to September.
Care Guide
Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Plant the Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae in well-drained soil that has a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow properly.
- Hardiness Zones: Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
- Milkweed Bugs: These insects can feed on the plant’s sap and cause damage.
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves.
- Root Rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering and can lead to the plant’s death.
Habitat
Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae is native to the southwestern United States and can be found in various habitats, including grasslands, prairies, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it is recommended to use a large container to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Q: Is Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. It is recommended to water the plant once a week.
Q: When is the best time to plant Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae?
A: The best time to plant Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae is in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Asclepias Tuberosa
- Asclepias Syriaca
- Asclepias Incarnata
- Asclepias Speciosa
References
- “Asclepias Uncialis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ASUN2.
- “Asclepias Uncialis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287536.
- “Asclepias Uncialis Subsp. Ruthiae.” Arizona State University, School of Life Sciences, www.asu.edu/courses/sbs200s/biology/plantlist/a/ascle_un.htm.
