Oval-leaf milkweed
Asclepias ovalifolia
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Pl. DB5D — Asclepias ovalifolia
Asclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifoliaAsclepias ovalifolia
IOverview
Overview
Oval-leaf milkweed (Asclepias ovalifolia) is a perennial herb found in the wild across northern and midwestern North America, from Alberta and British Columbia to Wisconsin and Wyoming. Known for its light requirements of full sun to partial shade, this plant thrives in dry to moist conditions on light or medium soil types. Native to parts of Canada and the United States, it is hardy in zones 5-9. Oval-leaf milkweed is notable not only for its ornamental value but also for its edible qualities; both its leaves and flowers can be consumed. Additionally, its seedpods and shoots are also edible, making it a versatile plant for those interested in foraging or gardening.
Quick answers
What is Oval-leaf milkweed?
Oval-leaf milkweed (Asclepias ovalifolia) is a perennial herb found in the wild across northern and midwestern North America, from Alberta and British Columbia to Wisconsin and Wyoming.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Oval-leaf milkweed thrives in full to partial sun and prefers well-drained soil that is light or medium in texture. It can tolerate dry conditions but performs best in moist soil. This perennial grows up to 0.6 meters tall and is hardy in zones 5-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. Propagate via seed or division. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, seeds, and seedpods.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Oval-leaf milkweed for the first time
8steps
Start with Oval-leaf milkweed as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for best growth.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into your garden or sow seeds directly where they will grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and mulch around the plant.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil dries out. Prune dead leaves in spring for a tidy appearance.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any dead foliage to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesSeedSeedpodShoots
Edible uses: Oil, Gum, Sweetener
Other uses:FiberGumtextilesoilPollutionCandles
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 14 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Illinois, Iowa, Manitoba, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Ontario, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Wyoming, British Columbia, North Dakota
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · db5dd72d-6733-4451-8a2f-11f817f5c559
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