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fewflower milkweed

Scientific Name: Asclepias lanceolata

Family: Asclepiadaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Fewflower Milkweed (Asclepias lanceolata)

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant is a milkweed.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant is a milkweed.

Common Names

  • Fewflower Milkweed
  • Few-flower Milkweed
  • Red Milkweed
  • Coastal Milkweed
  • Lanceleaf Milkweed
  • Orange Milkweed

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Asclepias lanceolata
  • Family: Asclepiadaceae (Milkweed Family)
  • Synonyms:
    • A. paupercula
    • Asclepias lanceolata var. paupercula (Michx.)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the coastal plain of the United States, from New Jersey to Florida.
  • Found throughout Florida.
  • Prefers wet areas, swamps, and wet meadows.
  • Also found in prairie and pine flatwoods.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Tall, thin, and spindly species.
  • Thread-like, linear to narrowly lanceolate leaves.
  • Leaves are opposite and stalked.
  • Somewhat sparse heads of bright orange-red flowers.
  • Perennial.
  • Forb/herb (non-woody plant).

Ecological Role

  • Recommended for natural landscapes and habitat restorations.
  • Used in wildflower and butterfly gardens.
  • A major source of nectar.
  • All milkweed species support monarch butterflies.
    • Adults lay eggs on the plant.
    • Caterpillars feed on the leaves.
  • Attracts many butterflies.

Resources and Further Information

  • USF Herbarium
  • Dave's Garden
  • Discover Life
  • Garden Guides
  • USDA PLANTS Database
  • North Carolina Botanical Garden at Chapel Hill
  • Southeastern Flora (http://www.southeasternflora.com/)
  • Florida Memory (https://floridamemory.com/items/show/95397)