SafePlants

Asclepias subulata (Rush Milkweed)

Asclepias subulata, commonly known as rush milkweed, desert milkweed, or ajamete, is an interesting plant with potential for use in gardens, especially in desert regions. This milkweed species is crucial for the lifecycle of the monarch butterfly, as it serves as a host plant for their larvae.

Considerations for Pets

• Many milkweed species, if not all, are known to have hazards, although specific reports for Asclepias subulata are not mentioned.

Considerations for Children

• Many milkweed species, if not all, are known to have hazards, although specific reports for Asclepias subulata are not mentioned.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Asclepias subulata Decne.
• Common Names: Rush milkweed, desert milkweed, ajamete, skeleton milkweed, desert reed-stem milkweed, reed-stem milkweed, jumete, mata candelilla.
• Family: Apocynaceae (formerly Asclepiadaceae)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the U.S., particularly Nevada and Arizona.
• Often found along desert washes.
• Also found in Southern California and the desert Southwest.
• It is one of the few evergreen milkweeds.

Morphological Characteristics

• Erect perennial herb.
• Mature plants are striking with many leafless stems.
• Clustered, leafless, grey-green, rush-like stems reach up to 4 feet high.
• Produces cream-colored flowers in umbels, each flower measuring 6.5 to 13 mm.
• It typically loses its leaves early in the season or is nearly leafless.
• Tall, spindly appearance.

Ecological Role

• Milkweed is crucial to the life-cycle of the monarch butterfly. Female monarchs lay their eggs on milkweed plants, and the larvae feed exclusively on milkweed leaves.
• Also supports queen butterflies.
• Attracts wildlife.

Quirky Facts

• Mature plants are described as "striking in appearance."
• One source mentions "many to several hundred grey-green rush-like stems" growing from a single root.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• CalPhotos: Provides photos of Asclepias subulata.
• Discover Life: Offers information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Asclepias subulata.