Asclepias tuberosa (Milkweed)

Asclepias tuberosa, Milkweed, Flame Weed, Butterfly Weed, Gay Butterflies, Pleurisy Root

Botanical name: Asclepias tuberosa

Common names: Milkweed, Flame Weed, Butterfly Weed, Gay Butterflies, Pleurisy Root

Family: Apocynaceae (Formerly:Asclepiadaceae)

Subfamily: Asclepiadoideae

Origin: North America

USDA Zone: 3-9?

USDA Plant Hardiness Map

Small plant 2-5 ft

Full sun

Dry conditions

Yellow, orange flowers

Red, crimson, vinous flowers

Toxic or Poisonous

Plant attracts butterflies, hummingbirds

Ethnomedical plant.
Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles.
Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.

Irritating plant

Subtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

Seaside, salt tolerant plant

The extremely bright color make it easy to spot. Like most milkweeds the juice is milky white. Long bloom period from late spring throughout the summer. Flowers are a nectar source for many butterflies and leaves are a food source for monarch butterfly larvae (caterpillars). Drought-tolerant. Listed in the U. S. Pharmacopeia in the 19th century the root was once widely used for lung problems such as asthma and bronchitis. Contains cardiac glycosides which are toxic in large amounts.

Similar plants: Asclepias tuberosa (Milkweed)

Image gallery: 8 images

Link to this plant:

https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/asclepias_tuberosa.htm

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