Common Milkweed
Propagation
Seed Treatment and Storage: Moist cold stratify 30-60 days then bring to 70°F in seed starting mix or similar medium
Biocultural Value
The Haudenosaunee and other Native American groups ate the tender shoots, young leaves, immature flower clusters, and young pods. The stem fibers were used to make twine (including bowstrings) and the cotton surrounding the seeds was applied to wounds to absorb moisture. The Cherokee, Haudenosaunee and Rappahannok applied the milky latex to warts, bee stings, ringworm, and cuts, while the Mahuna used it as a glue. Additional uses for the plant include as a kidney and urinary aid, laxative, gynecological aid, contraceptive, and stomach aid, among others.
Poisonous
All species of Asclepias are distasteful to livestock and pets. Common milkweed can be toxic if ingested and has been reported to cause poisonings in sheep, cattle, and goats. Leaves, stems, and fruit contain the cardiac glycosides desglucosyrioside and syrioside.
Wildlife Value
Common milkweed and swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) are the preferred host plants of the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus). A number of other caterpillars feed on the foliage, including those of the milkweed tiger moth (Enchaetes egle), unexpected Cycnia (Cycnia inopinatus), and delicate Cycnia (Cycnia tenera). Common milkweed is an important source of nectar for long-tongued bees, wasps, flies, skippers, and butterflies. Additional floral visitors include short-tongued bees, various milkweed plant bugs, and moths, including sphinx moths. Larger butterflies, predatory wasps, and long-tongued bees transfer pollina (pollen grain masses) between flowers to ensure the cross-pollination needed for fertile seed production. Mammalian herbivores avoid the toxic foliage.
