SafePlants

Prostrate Milkweed (Asclepias prostrata)

Prostrate Milkweed, scientifically known as Asclepias prostrata, is a fascinating member of the milkweed family. It is also sometimes referred to as Prostrate Spurge, Smooth Creeping Milkweed, Hairy Prostrate Euphorbia and Serpentine Milkweed. Known for its low-growing habit, it's a plant with notable ecological significance.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions milkweed sap, a characteristic of the Asclepias genus.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions milkweed sap, a characteristic of the Asclepias genus.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Asclepias prostrata
• Common Names: Prostrate Milkweed, Prostrate Spurge, Smooth Creeping Milkweed, Hairy Prostrate Euphorbia, Serpentine Milkweed
• Family: Asclepiadaceae (formerly), now Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Asclepias prostrata is native to Texas.
• Asclepias solanoana/Prostrate Milkweed also appears in Sonoma County, California.
• It's noted as globally rare in Hidalgo and Starr counties in Texas.

Ecological Role

• Milkweeds, including Asclepias prostrata, are crucial host plants for monarch butterflies and other specialized insects. They serve as a nectar source.

Morphological Characteristics

• Asclepias prostrata is known for its prostrate, or low-growing, habit, sprawling along the ground.
• Milkweeds have a characteristic medium height, usually around knee-high, although some, like Asclepias prostrata, are prostrate.
• Asclepias solanoana/Prostrate Milkweed has pink flowers, rounded in shape.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens.
• The Plant List, ToL (Tree of Life Web Project), BHL (Biodiversity Heritage Library), and WikiSpecies are referenced as sources of more information.
• Discover Life provides biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution information.