(Asclepias humistrata)
Sandhill Milkweed

Sandhill Milkweed (Asclepias humistrata)

Alternative Names

Pinewoods Milkweed and Pink-veined Milkplant

Description of Sandhill Milkweed (Asclepias humistrata)

Sandhill Milkweed (Asclepias humistrata), a member of the Apocynaceae (Dogbane Family), is a herbaceous perennial that grows to 3 feet tall and has white, pink, or purple flowers that bloom in the spring (March to June). The leaves are simple, opposite, entire, and clasping. The leaves grow up to 6 inches in length and 3-4 inches in width. The stem can have a purplish color. This plant grows in zones 8-9 and likes open areas with full sun that have mesic to dry sandy soil. More information about sandhill milkweed can be found on this post.

Hosted Species

Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)

Queen Butterfly (Danaus gillipus)

Nectar Species

Many butterflies, bees, ants, and beetles use this plant as a nectar source.

Range of Sandhill Milkweed (Asclepias humistrata) in the United States and Canada

Interesting Facts

The genus name, Asclepias, is the Greek name for the God of Medicine and the species name, humistrata, means “of sand.”