Asclepias amplexicaulis aka Clasping Milkweed

Asclepias amplexicaulis is a perennial wildflower in the dogbane family, Apocynaceae. Its common names include clasping milkweed and sand milkweed. It comes from the central and eastern United States. It grows in sandhills and dry woods within that range. This milkweed is scarce, and some states protect it. Its clasping leaf bases give the plant its common name.

Plants reach 1–4 feet (0.30–1.22 metres) tall. They spread 2–3 feet (0.61–0.91 metres) wide. A single stem usually grows without branches, though plants may sprawl. The smooth stem can be green or pink. Green leaves grow in opposite pairs and lack leaf stalks. Each waxy, oval leaf has wavy edges and a pale midrib. The blunt leaf tip ends in a small, sharp point. Broken stems release milky sap that can irritate skin.

Flowers open from May to July in one rounded, terminal umbel. Each cluster holds 15–80 flowers in shades of pink. Cream and green tones add contrast to the blooms. Five petals bend back beneath an upright pink or purple corona. The flowers have a scent like roses or cloves. Upright, spindle-shaped brown fruits appear from June through August. Each fruit is a follicle that splits when ripe. Wind carries away the brown seeds by their tufts.

Grow this plant in full sun or partial shade. It suits sandy or shallow, rocky soil with a neutral pH. It tolerates dry ground, though it also grows in moist soil. Growth is moderate, and routine upkeep is low. Growers raise new plants from seed, but supplies may be scarce. It fits native gardens, meadows, and borders planned for pollinators. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers for food. Monarch caterpillars also use the plant as a host.

No major disease problems are reported for this species. Aphids, milkweed beetles, and milkweed tussock moth larvae seldom cause serious trouble. Monarch caterpillars also rarely pose a major problem. Large and small milkweed bugs can badly damage the seed pods. The plant contains cardiac glycosides and poses risks to people and pets. Eating large amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, and confusion. The sap can irritate both skin and eyes. These risks matter when placing it near children or animals.