Pink-Veined Milkweed Asclepias humistrata

Pinewoods milkweed is a perennial plant in the dogbane (Apocynaceae) family that is native to the southeastern USA including NC. It is found throughout the sandhills and sandy woodland edges from NC south to FL and west to LA. The plant grows from an erect to somewhat prostrate form and can be 1-3 feet tall with a similar spread. The Genus honors Asclepius (Asklepios), the Greek god of medicine; the species name is from the Latin humis (“ground”) and sternere (“to spread”), reflecting the plant’s sprawling growth.

Grow in sun in sandy, well-drained soil with acid to neutral pH. Will not tolerate salt spray or brackish water. Propagate from root cuttings or seeds, spring or fall.

Grows best in meadows or naturalized areas; also consider planting pinewood milkweed in drought tolerant, native gardens, but as a specimen plant because of its sprawling habit. Researchers have found this milkweed species is an important host for Monarch butterflies making the Atlantic migration.  Milkweed is an important food source for Monarch butterfly caterpillars (Danaus plexippus).

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant insect or disease problems. Common milkweed pests (aphids, milkweed beetles, milkweed bugs. Monarch larvae, and milkweed tussock moth larvae may appear on the plants across the growing season.