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whitestem milkweed

Scientific Name: Asclepias albicans

Family: Asclepiadaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Asclepias albicans: Whitestem Milkweed

Asclepias albicans is a fascinating species of milkweed, known for its distinctive appearance and ecological role. Let's explore its characteristics and distribution.

Considerations for Pets

  • Asclepias species are known to contain milky sap.

Considerations for Children

  • Asclepias species are known to contain milky sap.

Common Names

  • Whitestem Milkweed
  • Wax Milkweed
  • White-stemmed Milkweed
  • White-stem Milkweed
  • Jumate
  • Candelilla
  • Coach-whip Milkweed
  • Giant Cane Milkweed

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Asclepias albicans S. Watson
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Family: Apocynaceae (formerly Asclepiadaceae, the milkweed family)
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts.
  • Found in desert washes.
  • Observed in locations such as western Arizona and Riverside, California (Mountain Palm Springs Trail).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Shrub, typically 100-300 cm tall, but can reach 400 cm.
  • Stems are erect or ascending, wandlike.
  • Branching occurs above, with young growth being glabrous (smooth).
  • Stems are conspicuously white-glaucous, covered with whitish wax.
  • Perennial subshrub.
  • Cane-like stems.

Ecological Role

  • Milkweed is the only plant a Monarch Caterpillar will eat.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The inflorescence attracts dozens of insects.

Related Species

  • Similar to Asclepias subulata (Rush Milkweed), which is found in the same region.
  • Related to Hoya, Stapelia, Hoodia, and Pseudolithos.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens.
  • CalPhotos: Database of photos, including Asclepias albicans.
  • USDA resources are referenced for information.
  • Cabeza Prieta Natural History Association provides information on Sonoran Desert Plants.
  • Xerces Society is an equal opportunity employer.