Broadleaf Milkweed

Asclepias latifolia

Physical Characteristics

Asclepias latifolia is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). 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 south-western N. America - Nebraska to Colorado, Texas and Arizona

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Sternutatory The leaves and stems can be dried then ground into a powder and inhaled as a snuff in the treatment of catarrh[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].