Botanical name: Asclepias speciosa
• Cold hardiness zones: 3-9
• Soil pH: 5.0 – 7.0
• Watering needs: Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
• Food forest layer: Herb layer
• Which parts of the plant are eaten as food: Young shoots, leaves, flower buds, and pods (must be cooked to remove toxicity)
• Blooming Season: Late spring to early summer
• Harvest season/regularity: Summer, when young shoots and flower buds are available
• Fruiting age: Typically flowers in the second year
• Age of maturity (full size and peak fruiting): Reaches full size in 2-3 years
• Average mature yield: Not typically measured due to its use as a wild forage plant
• Pollination for Fruit: Self-pollinating, but benefits from insect pollinators
• Size at maturity: 2 to 4 feet tall
• Sun needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Preferred habitat: Meadows, prairies, and open areas
• Growth rate (vigor): Moderate
• Natural reproductive rate (and methods): Spreads by seeds and rhizomes
• Propagation method: Seed, root cuttings
• Average life span: Perennial plant with a lifespan of several years
• Good companion plants: Compatible with most prairie and meadow plants
• Plant family: Apocynaceae
• Taproot: Yes, deep taproot
• Predators: Susceptible to aphids and milkweed bugs
• Other common problems/solutions: Can be invasive in garden settings; control with root barriers
Notes:
• Ecological functions/uses: Attracts and supports butterflies, especially Monarch butterflies; provides habitat and food for various pollinators.
• Food uses: Young shoots, leaves, flower buds, and pods can be eaten after proper preparation to remove toxicity.
• Food Flavor/Taste: Similar to most green vegetables when cooked; slightly bitter.
• Cautions: All parts of the plant contain toxic compounds (cardiac glycosides) and must be properly processed before consumption. Not recommended for consumption without adequate knowledge of safe preparation methods.
