California Milkweed (Asclepias californica)

Family: Asclepiadaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Asclepias californica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, insects, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The milky sap of the plant can be boiled until thick and then chewed like chewing gum. The leaves can be roasted and then chewed. — The milky sap of the plant can be boiled until thick and then chewed like chewing gum.; The leaves can be roasted and then chewed.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry slopes below 2200 metres in California. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)