Milkweed

Scientific Name:

Asclepias fascicularis

Variety:

"Narrow Leaf"

Physical Appearance:

• Fruit ranges in color shape and size

• Ripe and split to release seeds (pods) with silk-like fibers known as “floss”

• Wind dispersion

• Narrow lacy leaves

• Pink and white flowers

When Does It Grow:

• Dormant in winter

• flowers in spring and fall

• Preferred Environment:

• Drought tolerant

• Tons of habitats to deserts to forests

Name Origin:

• Comes from the bitter, “milky” sap they produce when stems are damaged

• Containing chemicals like alkaloids which are toxic to most animals and insects

• Concentration varies in species

Medicinal Uses:

• Historically used to treat warts

• American Health practitioners have started to see if the roots of milkweed can be used to help soften and remove kidney stones

Role in the Ecosystem:

• Female monarchs lay their eggs on milkweed since it is the only food monarch larvae can eat

• Also provides protection from predators while still in youth because they take in the chemicals from the milkweed when young and won’t be eaten in future bc many animals dislike the chemicals

Type of photosynthesis:

C3

Random:

• In World War II, American troops used Java Kapok to fill life vests of troops but their supply source was eventually cut off by the Japanese. Milkweed seeds served as a good replacement as they were waterproof and buoyant.