![]() |
< back Common name: Showy milkweed Scientific name: Asclepias speciosa Duration: Perennial Family: Milkweed family (Asclepiadaceae) Habitat: Adapted to a wide range of soil and moisture conditions, from seasonally wet to dry. Does well with little competition from other plants. Common in roadsides, canal banks and open prairie. Blooming period: Summer Color: Rose, pink Height: 3 - 5’ Planting Time: Fall or Spring; no stratification required Pronunciation: Asclepias speciosa (as-KLEEP-ee-as spee-see-OH-suh) Forage Value: This plant produces a milky sap and is generally avoided by livestock because of its bitter taste. Historic Uses: Many Native American tribes have used fibers from the stems of milkweed plants for making ropes and cords. During World War II, the hair-like tufts coming off the seeds (see image) were collected and used for the floatation of life jackets. Although there are conflicting reports on the toxicity of the different parts of the milkweed plants, there are accounts of Native American’s using the plant as a food source after extensive boiling to remove toxins.
| |||
![]() 1461 Thorn Creek Road, Genesee, Idaho 83832 208.596.9122 |