Asclepias

Formerly classified in the family Asclepiadaceae, Asclepias are now grouped in the family Apocynaceae. Perennial plants, sometimes woody, with a bushy stump, Asclepias have flowers grouped in umbels, often honey-producing, in white, cream, pink or red depending on the species, and followed by fusiform fruits containing flat seeds with a silky appendix. Asclepias thrive in the sun and in light, more or less well-drained soils. Depending on their geographical origin, they may vary in hardiness.