Family: Apocynaceae
Author: (Benth.) Jeps.
Bibliography: Fl. W. Calif.: 384 (1901)
Year: 1901
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Asclepias
Vegetable: False
Observations: Oregon to SW. U.S.A.
Description
The Purple milkweed, scientifically known as Asclepias cordifolia, is a captivating perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. Native to regions spanning from Oregon to the southwestern United States, this species is a notable member of the diverse milkweed genus, which is particularly renowned for its ecological role in supporting monarch butterflies.
Asclepias cordifolia, characterized by its robust clusters of deep magenta to purple flowers, thrives in various habitats, including open woodlands and rocky slopes. Its striking blossoms, arranged in umbels, make it not only a visually appealing addition to natural landscapes but also a crucial nectar source for a variety of pollinators. The vibrant coloration and unique structure of its flowers attract numerous insects, including the monarch butterflies, which rely on milkweeds both as a food source and as a breeding ground.
The plant’s foliage comprises opposite leaves that are often heart-shaped, signifying its name ‘cordifolia’ which is derived from the Latin word “cordis,” meaning heart. These leaves are typically large, ovate, and smooth-edged, presenting a lush green canvas that accentuates the vivid hues of its blooms.
Each part of the Purple milkweed contributes significantly to its survival and reproduction. The intricate pollination mechanism of Asclepias species ensures that pollen is effectively transferred by visiting insects, thereby facilitating the production of its iconic seed pods. These pods, or follicles, eventually split open to release seeds that are attached to silky filaments, allowing them to disperse widely with the wind.
Asclepias cordifolia has been documented in botanical references since 1901, with an official description appearing in “Flora of Western California” by Jepson. Its resilience and adaptability have enabled it to span a wide geographic range, from the cool, wet climates of Oregon to the arid regions of the southwestern United States. This adaptability, along with its ecological importance, makes the Purple milkweed a subject of interest not only for botanists and ecologists but also for gardeners and native plant enthusiasts aiming to bolster biodiversity.
The cultivation of Purple milkweed in garden settings not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also plays a pivotal role in conservation efforts for pollinators, particularly the monarch butterflies. Understanding and promoting the growth of Asclepias cordifolia can significantly aid in maintaining balanced ecosystems and supporting the intricate web of life that depends on these remarkable plants.
Common Names
Eng: purple milkweed
En: Purple milkweed, Heartleaf milkweed
Ar: صقلاب قلبي الأوراق
Synonyms
- Asclepias acornuta (Kellogg)
- Acerates atropurpurea (Kellogg)
- Asclepias ecornuta (Kellogg ex A.Gray)
- Acerates cordifolia (Benth.)
- Gomphocarpus cordifolius ((Benth.) Benth. ex A.Gray)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Nevada (native)
- Oregon (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jun 29, 2020 by william Anders (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 8, 2019 by caitlin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 17, 2020 by Bradley Soares (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 8, 2019 by caitlin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 29, 2020 by Liz Pucket (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jun 27, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 27, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 18, 2001 by EOL − Robert Potts (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 13, 2007 by EOL − J. E.(Jed) and Bonnie McClellan (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Nov 13, 2002 by EOL − Chester R.F. Cramer (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Dec 6, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 3, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 6, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 13, 2007 by EOL − J. E.(Jed) and Bonnie McClellan (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)
Fruit
Taken Dec 6, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3170280)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:21169-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Asclepias cordifolia (Benth.) Jeps.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
