Green Milkweed
asclepias viridis
Also known as: ["Green Antelopehorn","Spider Milkweed"]
Overview
A native perennial herbaceous plant with greenish-white flowers and distinctive spider-like seed pods.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Asclepias |
| Botanical Name: | Asclepias viridis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun, or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown indoors in very dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime. Major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or remove damage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to full sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but is sensitive to prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature shifts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are faster, while seeds offer genetic diversity.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 2–4 weeks. Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching. Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud. Remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Light pruning can improve flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter. Avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Incorporate compost for fertility. Ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf necrosis (browning/tissue death).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or dieback. Prolonged cold may lead to plant death.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location. Apply a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots. Avoid watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering. May lead to dehydration if water demands are not met.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat. Increase watering frequency. Use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicAsclepias viridis is toxic to cats due to its cardiac glycoside content, which can cause severe cardiac and gastrointestinal toxicity. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, and ingestion can be fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Asclepias viridis are highly toxic to dogs, affecting cardiac function and causing severe gastrointestinal distress. The toxins can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias and electrolyte imbalances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAsclepias viridis contains cardiac glycosides that can disrupt heart function and electrolyte balance, leading to severe physiological effects. The toxins interfere with sodium-potassium pumps in cells, causing systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Asclepias viridis toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is a host plant for monarch butterflies and attracts bees and other pollinators.
Q: How much water does it need?
A: It is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil with minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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