Dwarf Milkweed

Asclepias involucrata

Physical Characteristics

Asclepias involucrata is a PERENNIAL. 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

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Gum A gum from the latex can be used for chewing[46, 61, 105, 177]. Young shoots - cooked[105, 177]. Used as an asparagus substitute.

Medicinal Uses

Odontalgic Stomachic An infusion of the plant is used as a stomach medicine[257]. A poultice made from the heated roots is used as a toothache remedy[257].

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].