Purple Milkweed (Asclepias purpurascens)

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

Asclepias purpurascens is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen in September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, insects, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Roots/Tubers, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Tasting somewhat like peas. — The following uses have been recorded for A.; speciosa, it is fairly safe to assume they can also be applied to this closely related species.; Flower buds - raw or cooked.; Tasting somewhat like peas.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry to moist thickets, woods and openings. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)