Woollypod Milkweed

Asclepias eriocarpa

Physical Characteristics

Asclepias eriocarpa is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, insects, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

South-western N. America - California

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Gum Edible parts (after boiling): Sap (as gum), possibly young shoots and flowers. Traditional Use in US: Luiseño (Payómkawichum) people made chewing gum from dried sap. Flavor: Limited reports; likely bitter-acrid if not thoroughly boiled [2-3]. A gum obtained from the latex in the stems can be used for chewing[46, 61, 92, 161, 177]. It is usually boiled in water first until it coagulates and is sometimes mixed with oil[257].

Medicinal Uses

Antiasthmatic Skin Sternutatory Warts A decoction of the plant, and a salve made from it, is used in the treatment of colds. The milky sap is applied on a regular basis to corns in order to gradually remove them. It is also applied to cuts, sores and warts. The powdered dried roots are inhaled to cause sneezing. Smoke from the burning dried plant is inhaled as a treatment for asthma.

Known Hazards

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[274]. They are usually avoided by grazing animals[274]. The plant is said to be poisonous to sheep[1].