Asclepias sullivantii aka Prairie Milkweed

Taxonomy

Common names

Prairie Milkweed, Sullivant's Milkweed, Smooth Milkweed

How to care for Prairie Milkweed

Difficulty

Caring for Prairie Milkweed is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

Prairie Milkweed should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

When growing Prairie Milkweed, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Smooth Milkweed with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Prairie Milkweed from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Sullivant's Milkweed regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Prairie Milkweed will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Prairie Milkweed prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Fertilizer

The Prairie Milkweed is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the Prairie Milkweed as it grows vertically.

Region of origin

Prairie Milkweed’s native range is N. America - Ontario to Ohio, Minnesota, Nebraska, Missouri and Kansas.


More info:
Wikipedia