SafePlants

Considerations for Pets

• As a member of the milkweed family, this plant contains milky juice, which is present in many milkweed species.
• The plant produces pods which eventually darken with maturity turning to a dark bark or mahogany color and seeds.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Asclepias hypoleuca (A. Gray) Woodson
• Family: Asclepiadaceae (Milkweed Family) - also referred to as Apocynaceae in some sources.
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Gomphocarpus hypoleucus
• USDA Symbol: ASHY5

Common Names

• Mahogany Milkweed
• Talayote (Spanish)

Distribution and Habitat

Asclepias hypoleuca is found in states where other native milkweed species grow, including Arizona and New Mexico. Specifically mentioned locations include Emory Pass, Grant County and Sierra El Tigre, Sonora, Mexico.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Asclepias hypoleuca is a perennial forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• It typically grows to a height of 40-80 cm.
• The stems are erect and unbranched.
• Surfaces can be glabrous (smooth) or slightly hairy.
• The plant has opposite, deep-green, glossy leaves and small deep mahogany flowers.

Ecological Role

• Milkweed species, including Asclepias hypoleuca, are crucial host plants for Monarch butterflies. Monarchs can only safely lay their eggs on milkweed.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It serves as a host plant for Monarch butterflies.
• The flowers attract pollinators.

Quirky Facts

• The seed pods of Asclepias hypoleuca will darken with maturity turning to a dark bark or mahogany color.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden Plant Database
• Discover Life
• Encyclopedia of Life
• UA Herbarium, ASU Vascular Plant Herbarium