Family: Apocynaceae
Author: (Torr.) Raf.
Bibliography: Atlantic J. 1: 146 (1832)
Year: 1832
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Asclepias
Vegetable: False
Observations: WC. & C. U.S.A.
Description
Broadleaf milkweed, scientifically known as Asclepias latifolia, is an intriguing and vital component of the flora in the United States, specifically noted in both the western and central regions. First described in the Atlantic Journal in 1832, this plant was classified by the botanist Constantine Samuel Rafinesque.
Belonging to the Apocynaceae family, broadleaf milkweed stands out due to its distinctive broad leaves, which are a deviation from the narrower leaf structure more commonly associated with many milkweed species. This unique characteristic not only aids in identifying the plant in its natural habitat but also contributes to its particular ecological role.
Asclepias latifolia is crucial for its relationship with various species of pollinators, most notably the monarch butterfly. The plant serves as both a nectar source for adult butterflies and a critical feeding site for the larvae. This symbiotic relationship underscores the ecological importance of broadleaf milkweed within its native regions.
The growth habitats of broadleaf milkweed generally include open fields, prairies, and roadsides where it can receive ample sunlight. It is an herbaceous perennial, meaning it can live for more than two years, contributing to the stability and sustainability of the ecosystems it inhabits.
Cultivating broadleaf milkweed can be a significant step towards supporting pollinator populations and maintaining biodiversity. Gardeners and conservationists often plant it to create butterfly gardens, aiming to provide a nurturing environment for these essential insects.
Overall, Asclepias latifolia is not just a plant of botanical interest but also a cornerstone species in the fight to preserve pollinator health and diversity. Its presence in the landscape is a testament to the intricate interdependencies within natural ecosystems.
Common Names
Eng: broadleaf milkweed, corn-kernel milkweed
En: Broadleaf milkweed, Corn-kernel milkweed
Synonyms
- Otanema latifolia var. retusa (Raf.)
- Asclepias obtusifolia var. latifolia (Torr.)
- Otanema latifolia ((Torr.) Raf.)
- Asclepias jamesii (Torr.)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Kansas (native)
- Nebraska (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- South Dakota (native)
- Texas (native)
- Utah (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Aug 5, 2019 by Eric Duveau (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 5, 2019 by Eric Duveau (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 2, 2022 by Cristy Osier (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2020 by Faukil Steele (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 21, 2019 by bensing john (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Habit
Taken Oct 26, 2015 by EOL − Jason Singhurst (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 26, 2015 by EOL − Jason Singhurst (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 26, 2015 by EOL − Jason Singhurst (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 1, 2022 by Leigh Weidner (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 25, 2020 by Faukil Steele (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Aug 17, 2015 by EOL − Jason Singhurst (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 17, 2015 by EOL − Jason Singhurst (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 17, 2015 by EOL − Jason Singhurst (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 17, 2015 by EOL − Jason Singhurst (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 25, 2020 by Faukil Steele (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Sep 2, 2019 by Angela Angela (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 16, 2014 by EOL − Patrick Leary (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 16, 2014 by EOL − Patrick Leary (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 16, 2014 by EOL − Patrick Leary (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3170304)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:94386-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Asclepias latifolia (Torr.) Raf.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
