SafePlants

Oval-leaf Milkweed (Asclepias ovalifolia)

Oval-leaf Milkweed, scientifically known as Asclepias ovalifolia, is a perennial herb appreciated for its distinctive oval leaves and ecological significance.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant belongs to the milkweed family, known for producing milky sap.

Considerations for Children

• This plant belongs to the milkweed family, known for producing milky sap.

Common Names

• Oval-leaf Milkweed
• Dwarf Milkweed
• Low Milkweed

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Asclepias ovalifolia Decne.
• Family: Asclepiadaceae (now often included within Apocynaceae)
• Synonym: Asclepias ovalifolia s.

Distribution and Habitat

• Oval-leaf Milkweed is native to the United States.
• It can be found in various habitats, including prairies and sand dunes, such as those in Sand Dunes State Forest in Minnesota.
• It thrives in both upland woods and woodland openings.
• It is hardy to zone 6 in the UK.

Morphological Characteristics

• Asclepias ovalifolia is a perennial growing to a height of 0.6 meters (2 feet) and a spread of 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches).
• The stems are slender and typically solitary, reaching heights of 2-6 dm.
• Leaves are arranged in opposite pairs along the central stem.
• Leaf blades are 2-3 inches long and approximately 1 inch across, with shapes described as lanceolate, ovate, or oval.
• The leaves are either erect or spreading and are attached with petioles.
• Flowers are small, white and are about 1 inch, with 5 downward spreading petals arranged in convex clusters.
• The leaves can be oblong (oval), pointed and up to 22 cm long and 10 cm wide.

Ecological Role

• Milkweed species, including Asclepias ovalifolia, are crucial for monarch butterfly conservation.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Milkweed species (Asclepias L.) are vital host plants for the larvae of migratory butterflies.

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Dave's Garden
• Discover Life
• Prairie Moon Nursery
• Xerces Society