Family: Apocynaceae
Author: Walter
Bibliography: Fl. Carol.: 107 (1788)
Year: 1788
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Asclepias
Vegetable: False
Observations: Illinois to SE. U.S.A.
Description
Smooth-seed milkweed, scientifically known as Asclepias perennis, is a fascinating member of the Apocynaceae family. Documented in the Flora Caroliniana in 1788 by Walter, this perennial plant holds significant ecological value, particularly within its native range spanning from Illinois to the southeastern United States.
Characterized by its slender, smooth seed pods, Asclepias perennis frequently thrives in wetland areas, such as swamps and along riverbanks. This adaptability to moist conditions distinguishes it from other milkweed species more commonly associated with drier environments. The plant exhibits a graceful form with delicate, opposite leaves that can serve both ornamental and ecological functions in natural and cultivated landscapes.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Smooth-seed milkweed is its role in supporting local wildlife, especially pollinators like butterflies. The flowers provide an essential nectar source, attracting a variety of insects, including the iconic monarch butterfly, which relies heavily on milkweed species for both nectar and as host plants for their larvae.
Despite its ecological benefits, Smooth-seed milkweed is often overshadowed by its more famous relatives within the Asclepias genus. Nonetheless, its presence in wetlands and its contribution to the biodiversity of those ecosystems underscore its importance. Conservation efforts for wetland habitats inherently support the thriving existence of Asclepias perennis, thus aiding in the sustenance of the intricate web of life that depends on it.
In landscaping, Smooth-seed milkweed is appreciated for its manageable size and appealing flowers. Gardeners aiming to create pollinator-friendly spaces frequently integrate it into their plant selections, benefiting both the environment and the aesthetic harmony of their gardens.
In summary, Asclepias perennis is a notable and valuable species within the Apocynaceae family, integral to the ecosystems from Illinois to the southeastern United States. Its role in supporting pollinators and adapting to wetland environments highlights the intricate interdependencies within these habitats, emphasizing the need for continued conservation and appreciation of this elegant milkweed.
Common Names
Eng: aquatic milkweed, smooth-seed milkweed, white milkweed
En: Smooth-seed milkweed, White milkweed, Aquatic milkweed
Synonyms
- Asclepias parviflora var. latifolia (Raf.)
- Asclepias matelea (Nutt.)
- Asclepias parvifolia (Pursh ex Decne.)
- Asclepias debilis (Michx.)
- Matelea laevis (Nutt.)
- Asclepias perennis var. parvula (A.Gray)
- Asclepias parvula ((A.Gray) Vail)
- Asclepias laxiflora (Perr. ex Colla)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- Missouri (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jul 5, 2019 by Shelly Peterson Raza (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 18, 2021 by Angie Angie Mims (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 27, 2012 by EOL − Sharpj99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Sep 26, 2012 by EOL − Jason Sharp (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 27, 2012 by EOL − Sharpj99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 27, 2012 by EOL − Sharpj99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Habit
Taken Jun 21, 2015 by EOL − Scott Buckel (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 12, 2015 by EOL − Jed Aplaca (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 29, 2015 by EOL − grbfrog (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 15, 2011 by EOL − Cullen Hanks (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 24, 2012 by EOL − Sharpj99 (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3170346)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30270360-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Asclepias perennis Walter)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
