clasping milkweed

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

1-4 ft. tall
2-3 ft. wide

Tolerant of

Drought

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil

Propagation

By seed

Plant Propagation Notes

Specific information on this species is sparce, but

Plants/Diseases

No known issues.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae

Leaves

The large, simple, and opposite leaves lack petioles and clasp the stem at the base. Margins ruffled.

Flowers

Purple maroon flowers that are radially symmetrical and arranged on an umbel. Fragrant.

Fruit

Large spindle-shaped follicle that splits to release flat brown oval shaped-seeds that are wind dispersed.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant contain low level toxins and should not be consumed.

USDA Hardiness Zones

3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Full Sun

Soil Moisture

Dry, Medium

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

A variety of habitats with sandy soil including long leaf pine sandhills, barrens, prairies, and dry woodlands.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common in the coastal plain and piedmont. Uncommon in the mountains.