sandhill milkweed

Plant Type

Herbaceous Wildflower

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

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

Tolerant of

Drought

Inolerant of

Poorly Drained Soil

Propagation

By seed

Plant Propagation Notes

Fresh seed will germinate without pre-treatment. Stored seed should be cold moist stratified for 90 days.

Plants/Diseases

No significant pests or disease issues. Aphids can be an issue in high quantities.

Wildlife Benefits

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

Leaves

Large ovate leaves, arranged opposite along the stem with entire margins. Deep green with distinctive pink veination.

Flowers

Pinkish purple radially symmetric with 5 petals.

Fruit

Large follicles that contain flat, round brown seeds that are wind dispersed.

Toxicity

Mildly toxic and should not be consumed.

USDA Hardiness Zones

8, 9

Light Exposure

Full Sun

Soil Moisture

Dry

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0), Neutral (6.0-8.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Longleaf pine sandhills, Florida scrub, and open sandy areas.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common in the coastal plain. Absent from the piedmont and mountains.