Asclepias

Family. Asclepiadaceae. 

Origin of Asclepias. Tropical South America.

Description. Asclepias is a small, short-lived shrub with leaves 10–19 cm long and 5–11 cm wide, ovate, oblong, lanceolate or elliptic, on short petioles. The rich dark green on the upper side of the leaves contrasts with the lighter green on the underside. Pairs of leaves are arranged perpendicular to each other. The inflorescences are umbels with an attractive aroma. The flowers are 2 cm in diameter, appearing in summer and autumn, orange-red with a dark yellow crown bearing stamens; the flowers are collected in umbels of 5–10 pieces.

The fruits of the plant are pod-like and contain seeds covered with long silky hairs. In mild climates, this plant can grow very large in gardens, so be prepared to have to get rid of it. 

Height. Usually 90 - 150 cm, but can reach 240 cm in open ground.

Planting and care

Containment temperature

Cool to warm room temperature.

Reproduction 

In the spring, sow seeds or in late spring - summer, cuttings from young stems. 

Soil 

Based on soil with the addition of peat or leaf humus.

Maintenance at home

After flowering, prune the plant by half. Plants become stretched as they age, so they should be replaced every 2 to 3 years. 

Lighting

Bright lighting and maximum sun.

Feeding

From spring to autumn, fertilize every 2 weeks with diluted liquid fertilizer. 

Purpose

Asclepias is suitable for greenhouses, but will also grow well indoors.

Flowering time

May - August. 

Air humidity

It is not demanding on air humidity. 

Watering

Abundant watering during the growth period. After flowering, reduce watering and allow a dormant period of 2 months in winter. 

Transfer

Repot your houseplants into a larger pot each spring. The greatest decorative effect is achieved by planting three plants in one pot. 

Pests and diseases

No serious problems.

If the plant is kept in a sufficiently dry and warm atmosphere. then it can be attacked by spider mites and sometimes whiteflies.

Note

Native Americans used the flower as a source of fiber for making thread, and today it is used as a filling for pillows and blankets. Be careful when handling the cuttings - they secrete a lot of poisonous milky juice. When grown outdoors, asclepias become an excellent honey plant.

Varieties:

Asclepias "Ballet on Ice"

Asclepias "Ice Ballet" is distinguished by white flowers collected in large apical umbrellas.

Asclepias tuberose

      Asclepias tuberose -  the owner of lush caps of orange flowers.