Rush Milkweed

Asclepias subulata

Physical Characteristics

Asclepias subulata is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. 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

None known

Medicinal Uses

Emetic Ophthalmic Purgative Stomachic The plant is emetic, ophthalmic, purgative and stomachic[61, 257]. The reports do not specify which part of the plant is used.

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]. One report says that the plant is considered poisonous by some native North American Indian tribes[257].