Higher classification Milkweed | Subfamily Asclepiadoideae Scientific name Asclepias cryptoceras Rank Species | |
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Similar Milkweed, Asclepias solanoana, Asclepias nyctaginifolia, Asclepias albicans, Asclepias vestita |
Jewel milkweed asclepias cryptoceras
Asclepias cryptoceras is a species of milkweed known by the common names jewel milkweed, pallid milkweed, Humboldt Mountains milkweed, and cow-cabbage. It is native to the western United States, where it grows in many types of habitat, especially dry areas. This is a perennial herb growing low against the ground or drooping. It arises from a fleshy, woody rhizome-like root. The thick leaves are round to heart-shaped and arranged oppositely on the short stem. The inflorescence is a cluster of small flowers with centers of bright to dull pink hoods surrounded by pale-colored reflexed corollas. The fruit is a follicle held erect on a small stalk.

The Paiute people used the plant as a medicinal remedy, preparing the roots for headache and sores, and the latex for ringworm.




