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pallid milkweed

Scientific Name: Asclepias cryptoceras

Family: Asclepiadaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Asclepias cryptoceras: Jewel of the Milkweed Family

Asclepias cryptoceras, commonly known as jewel milkweed, pallid milkweed, or Humboldt Mountains milkweed, is a fascinating member of the milkweed family.

Common Names

  • Jewel Milkweed
  • Pallid Milkweed
  • Humboldt Mountains Milkweed
  • Davis' Milkweed

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Asclepias cryptoceras S. Watson
  • Family: Apocynaceae (Dogbane Family), formerly Asclepiadaceae (Milkweed Family)
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species, Subspecies
  • Synonyms:
    • Asclepias cryptoceras ssp. davisii
    • Asclepias cryptoceras var. davisii
    • Asclepias davisii

Distribution and Habitat

  • Asclepias cryptoceras is a western species, often found in semi-desert environments, sandy areas, and shrublands.
  • Specifically, it can be found in dry rocky slopes, canyons, and hills throughout arid parts of the western United States, including Capitol Reef National Park in Utah.
  • It thrives in full sun and is often found in dry conditions.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • This plant is a perennial herb, typically growing to a height of 3.9 inches to 1 foot (1 to 3 dm).
  • It features opposite, simple, broad leaves that range from 0.8 to 4.6 inches (2 to 11.5 cm) in length and up to 0.6 inches wide.
  • It is a non-woody plant (forb/herb).

Ecological Role

  • Asclepias cryptoceras serves as a crucial host plant for monarch caterpillars, making it important for monarch butterfly conservation efforts.

Considerations for Pets

  • Milkweed species, including Asclepias cryptoceras, produce a milky sap.

Considerations for Children

  • Milkweed species, including Asclepias cryptoceras, produce a milky sap.

Quirky Facts

  • Asclepias cryptoceras is sometimes referred to as Davis Milkweed, a name derived from its synonyms.
  • It can be found growing in rare scree plant habitats.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden: A community sharing tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants.
  • Discover Life: A resource for biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution information.