Etymology: Asclepias: named for the Greek god of healing Asklepios
Plants: erect, perennial, 1 1/2'-3' tall forb with a single, stout stem with soft, fine hairs; milky juice
Leaves: elliptical to oblong, opposite with pointed tips and broadly pointed bases, stalked, downy beneath
Flowers: purple to red, 5-parted, 1/2"-2/3" tall, with the flat, short, inwardly-curved horns shorter than the pale purple hoods; inflorescence many-flowered, stalked, erect umbel (1 to a few); blooms June-Aug.
Fruits: downy pods with many seeds on silky hairs
Habitat: dry; prairies, woods; in sandy soil
Hazardous: Careful, this plant is hazardous!
Conservation Status: Endangered

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 9, Wetland Indicator = FACU WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin listed species including state and federal status, photos, etc. Atlas of the Wisconsin Prairie and Savanna Flora: by T.S. Cochrane & H.H. Iltis: habitat, distribution infomation / flowering and fruiting times USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Dan Tenaglia's The Missouri Flora: Fabulous photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leave arrangement key. Illinois Wildflowers: Wonderful photographs; detailed descriptions; color and leaf arrangement key