Red Silkweed (Asclepias rubra)

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

Asclepias rubra is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. 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, Flowers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Flower buds - cooked as potherbs or added to soups. Young shoots and leaves - cooked as potherbs or added to soups. Young seed pods, 3 - 4 cm long, cooked. Flower clusters can be boiled down to make a sugary syrup. — Flower buds - cooked as potherbs or added to soups.; Young shoots and leaves - cooked as potherbs or added to soups.; Young seed pods, 3 - 4 cm long, cooked.; Flower clusters can be boiled down to make a sugary syrup.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist soils. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)