Desert Milkweed (Asclepias erosa)

Family: Asclepiadaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Asclepias erosa is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). 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 cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The milky sap can be left to solidify, then heated over a fire to be used as a chewing gum. — The milky sap can be left to solidify, then heated over a fire to be used as a chewing gum.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry slopes and washes below 1500 metres in California. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)