Asclepias subverticillata - (A.Gray) Vail

(A.Gray) Vail

Poison Milkweed

Apocynaceae Potential hazards — see below

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Jackson Irvin

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Jackson Irvin

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Priscilla Titus

Description

Asclepias subverticillata is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. The flowers are pollinated by Bees, Insects. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Edible Uses

Edible parts (after thorough boiling): Leaves only, but very bitter and unpleasant. Preparation: Requires multiple water changes; still unsatisfactory. Safety: Extremely toxic raw; dangerous even after cooking.

Known Hazards

Extremely toxic raw; dangerous even after cooking. Although no specific reports have been seen for this species, many, if not all, members of this genus contain toxic resinoids, alkaloids and cardiac glycosides. They are usually avoided by grazing animals.

Distribution

Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and surrounding states.

Where It Grows

USA. Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, Wyoming

Cultivation

Form: Perennial herb, 30–80 cm tall, thread-like leaves. Leaves: Very narrow, linear, whorled. Flowers: White to greenish. Bloom: May–September. Hardiness: USDA zones 6–10. Weed Potential: Locally dominant; toxic to livestock.