Bedstraw Milkweed

Asclepias galioides

Physical Characteristics

Asclepias galioides is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.4 m (1ft 4in). 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

Central and southern N. America - Kansas to Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico And Mexico

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Seedpod Shoots Edible Uses: Young buds[161, 177]. No further details. Does this refer to the flower buds or the young stems?[K]. The young shoots of several other species are used as an asparagus substitute[K]. Young seedpods - raw[161, 177]. Root - raw[161].

Medicinal Uses

Galactogogue The Hopi Indians used this plant to increase the flow of milk, but the part used and method of preparation are not known[213, 216].

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].