Kingsville milkweed
asclepias eriocarpa
Also known as: ["woollypod milkweed","woollypod"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to California, known for its woolly pods and toxic sap.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Asclepias |
| Botanical Name: | Asclepias eriocarpa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; poor drainage can lead to root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with low organic matter; mimics its native arid habitat.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- 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: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth if needed, but avoid heavy pruning during flo
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers. Adjust exposure gradually if moving from shade to sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to intense sunlight over 7–10 days to prevent scorching; in hot climates, provide afternoon shade; for indoor plants, place near a south-facing window with unobstructed light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun; monitor for leaf burn in high heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid over-amending with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers warm to hot conditions (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in arid, warm climates.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; adjust watering based on temperature extremes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant; use organic alternatives like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed propagation; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch stem cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite, sand, and peat moss; can also use cactus or succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder or gel for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded stems to improve airflow.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems; focus on improving air circulation and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (70% alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; remove spent flowers (deadheading) to encourage reblooming.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; Asclepias eriocarpa prefers being slightly root-bound but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply (6–8 inches); allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate small amounts of compost for fertility; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting or leaf drop in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage; prolonged cold can lead to leaf drop and dormancy.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; apply a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may enter temporary dormancy to conserve energy.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature; mist foliage during extreme heat.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; water before fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (10-10-10) diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicAsclepias eriocarpa is toxic to cats due to its cardiac glycoside content, which can severely affect heart function and electrolyte balance. Ingestion can lead to life-threatening conditions in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe cardiac glycosides in Asclepias eriocarpa are toxic to dogs, causing significant disruption to heart rhythm and electrolyte balance. Ingestion can result in severe systemic effects, particularly affecting the cardiovascular system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicAsclepias eriocarpa, commonly known as woollypod milkweed, contains cardiac glycosides that can disrupt heart function and electrolyte balance. Ingestion can lead to severe physiological effects, particularly affecting the cardiovascular and nervous systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Asclepias eriocarpa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How drought-tolerant is this plant?
A: It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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