8/8/2023 0 Comments Butterfly weed seedling![]() ![]() The plant contains a toxin that is harmful to many predators. Furthermore, the larvae of the monarch butterflies only feed on Asclepias plants. They are the sole plants on which the butterflies lay their eggs. Why are Asclepias Flowers so Important to Monarch Butterflies?Īsclepias flowers are vital to monarch butterflies. Native Americans used the plant to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory problems, cuts and bruises, and joint pain. Asclepias have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. ![]() Milkweed seeds are carried by the wind and can travel long distances, allowing the plant to spread quickly.ħ. However, some insects, including the monarch butterfly, have evolved to tolerate and even use this toxin to their advantage.Ħ. The leaves and stems contain a toxic sap that can be harmful to pets, livestock, and humans if ingested. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including native bees, honey bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies - especially monarch butterflies.ĥ. Milkweed plants can grow 2-6 feet tall (60-180 cm) and have broad, lance-shaped leaves.Ĥ. They are a key part of butterfly, cottage, prairie, and meadow gardens.ģ. These plants are adorned with clusters of small, interestingly shaped flowers in shades of yellow, green, purple, pink, or orange.Īttractive and easy to grow, they shine in many perennial gardens. They are evergreen or deciduous perennials. The most common species are common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), and swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata).Īsclepias are mostly native to the U.S. Here are some interesting facts about milkweed plants: This species has had significant population losses in recent years. It creates critical habitat for the monarch butterfly. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |