Overview of Funastrum heterophyllum (Engelm. ex Torr.) Standl.
Funastrum heterophyllum, also known as Clasping milkweed, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. The plant is native to North America, mainly found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Clasping milkweed is a small shrub that is found in dry and rocky habitats, especially in mesas, hills, and sandy plains.
Appearance of Funastrum heterophyllum (Engelm. ex Torr.) Standl.
Clasping milkweed has a distinctive appearance characterized by several features. The plant grows up to 60 cm in height and has a slender stem that is covered with fine hairs. The leaves are oval, oblong, or lanceolate-shaped, and have a smooth surface that is green or grayish-green in color. The flowers of the plant are small and white, pinkish or mauve, with five distinct lobes. The fruit is a follicle that contains numerous small seeds which are dispersed by the wind.
Common Names of Funastrum heterophyllum (Engelm. ex Torr.) Standl.
The plant is commonly known by several names based on its location. In Mexico, it is known as 'Algodoncillo.' In the United States, it is known as 'Clasping milkweed' as it has leaves that clasp the stem, 'Engelmann's milkweed,' or 'False milkweed.'
Uses of Funastrum heterophyllum (Engelm. ex Torr.) Standl.
Funastrum heterophyllum has several uses, including medicinal, ornamental, and ecological. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat burns, fever, and stomach pain. The plant also contains cardiac glycosides, which have been used to treat heart disorders. The plant can also be grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers. In ecology, Funastrum heterophyllum plays a vital role in the food chain as it serves as a host plant for monarch butterfly larvae.
Growth Conditions for Funastrum heterophyllum (Engelm. ex Torr.) Standl.
Funastrum heterophyllum, also known as desert milkweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Light Requirements
Funastrum heterophyllum generally prefers full sun or partial shade, and it can grow under a variety of light conditions.
However, in densely shaded environments, the plant may grow taller and weaker, with fewer branches and smaller flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Funastrum heterophyllum can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it prefers warm to hot climates.
The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C), but it grows best in temperatures between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 33°C).
During the winter months, Funastrum heterophyllum becomes dormant, and its above-ground parts may die back.
Soil Requirements
Funastrum heterophyllum is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils.
It can also grow in clay soils, but it may require irrigation during prolonged dry periods.
The plant is adapted to nutrient-poor soils and can thrive in soils with low organic matter and low fertility.
However, it may benefit from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, especially if grown in containers or nutrient-poor soils.
Cultivation Methods
Funastrum heterophyllum, commonly known as Mexican False Milkweed, is a prairie plant native to the central and western parts of North America. It is a perennial that can grow up to 5ft tall, with narrow, hairy leaves and fragrant, white or pinkish flowers.
The plant requires full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil with moderate moisture. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and droughts, but the growth and flowering will be improved with regular watering. The seeds can be sown in spring or autumn, and the plant can be propagated by division or stem cuttings in spring or summer.
Watering Needs
Funastrum heterophyllum prefers moderate moisture and can tolerate droughts, but it will benefit from regular watering, especially during prolonged dry periods. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excessive water can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply and less frequently, rather than frequently and shallowly, to encourage deep root growth and save water.
Fertilization
Funastrum heterophyllum does not require frequent fertilization and can thrive in nutrient-poor soil. However, if the plant appears to be lacking in nutrients, you can apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, at half the recommended strength in spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Funastrum heterophyllum does not require regular pruning, but you can trim back the stems after flowering to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or diseased stems. You can also cut back the stems in late autumn to tidy up the plant for winter. Wear gloves when pruning, as the sap from the plant can irritate the skin.
Propagation of Funastrum heterophyllum
Funastrum heterophyllum can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation and vegetative propagation through stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Funastrum heterophyllum are readily available and can be collected from mature plants in the wild. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. They require warm temperatures and good light to germinate. Once the seedlings have grown a few leaves, they can be transplanted into pots or directly into the ground in a sunny location.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Funastrum heterophyllum is easy and efficient through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from mature plants in the spring or early summer. They should be around 4-6 inches long with 2-3 healthy leaves and a few nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom ? of the cutting and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. Within a few weeks, roots should have formed and the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground in a sunny location.
Disease Management
Funastrum heterophyllum, commonly known as Texas milkweed, is susceptible to various diseases, including:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease manifests as circular brown or black spots on the leaves. It is brought about by excessive humidity and poor air circulation. To control fungal leaf spot, remove the infected leaves carefully to avoid spreading the spores and provide proper ventilation in the growing area.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is characterized by a white powdery substance on the leaves. It affects the overall appearance and growth of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, use fungicidal sprays, maintain proper air circulation, and avoid watering the foliage.
- Root rot: This disease is brought about by overly moist soil, and it causes leaf yellowing, wilting, and eventual death. To prevent root rot, ensure adequate drainage and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pest Management
Funastrum heterophyllum is also prone to attack by various pests such as:
- Milkweed bugs: These bugs feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage milkweed bugs, use pesticides specifically formulated for this pest and manually remove them using hands or by shaking the plant carefully.
- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on plant sap, causing yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and distorted foliage. To control aphids, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, practice proper planting distance, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of butterflies that feed on the foliage, causing vast damage to the plant. To manage caterpillars, manually remove them and introduce predators like birds and wasps.
