Dwarf Milkweed
Asclepias involucrata
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Pl. 911A — Asclepias involucrata
Asclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrataAsclepias involucrata
IOverview
Overview
Dwarf Milkweed (Asclepias involucrata) is a perennial forb or herb native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Mexico (Northeast and Northwest), New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. This plant thrives in habitats with dry to moist conditions, particularly in light (sandy) soils, and can be found in full to partial sun. Known for its edible leaves and shoots, Dwarf Milkweed is a valuable resource for foragers and gardeners. Its distinctive clusters of small, pinkish-purple flowers are surrounded by broad, white bracts, making it an ornamental addition to gardens or natural landscapes. While not medicinal, Dwarf Milkweed is a useful plant for those interested in foraging and ornamental gardening.
Quick answers
What is Dwarf Milkweed?
Dwarf Milkweed (Asclepias involucrata) is a perennial forb or herb native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Mexico (Northeast and Northwest), New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Dwarf Milkweed thrives in full to partial sun, preferring well-draining, light sandy soil. It is drought-tolerant but will benefit from moist conditions. This perennial subshrub or herb is hardy in temperate regions and is native to areas including Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Mexico, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. For propagation, use seeds or divide the roots in spring. Harvest edible parts such as leaves and shoots.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Subshrub, Forb/herb
For first-time growers
How to grow Dwarf Milkweed for the first time
8steps
Start with Dwarf Milkweed to gain experience in growing milkweeds, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a container or garden bed, good quality potting soil if planting in containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil; for containers, choose a pot with drainage holes. In garden beds, ensure good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost or directly sow in late spring. Transplant small plants after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during establishment.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade and water when the top inch of soil dries out. Prune dead leaves or stems as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage a bushier plant; avoid harvesting leaves for eating due to limited availability.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, not providing enough sunlight, and harvesting too many leaves early on.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: Gum
Other uses:Gumtextiles
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 9 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 911a63ac-1096-453b-aaf8-7e1a6291ca1c
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