Description
Form: Herbaceous stems that become woody from the bottom up with age (subshrub).
Lifespan: Perennial.
Leaf retention: Evergreen above 25°F (-3.9°C).
Growth rate: Moderate.
Mature Size: 2-3' (60-100cm) high and wide.
Flowers: Small, clustered, white flowers.
Bloom: Spring, summer and fall.
Fruit: A tear-shaped sack that splits open vertically to release seeds (follicle). The seeds are plumed for wind dispersal.
Leaves: Green, narrow, shaped like pine needles.
Stems: Erect to ascending.
Wildlife: The flowers of this plant attract butterflies. It is also a food plant for Queen and Monarch butterfly caterpillars.
Toxic / Danger: Pineneedle Milkweed is slightly poisonous and its sap is a skin irritant.
Origin: Native to California through New Mexico and Mexico.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 9-11.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun to afternoon shade (recommended).
Soil: Well draining, pH 6.6-8.5 (neutral to alkaline).
Water once established: Deep water two or three times a month.
First Year Care: These plants need daily water for several weeks after planting. Gradually taper back to twice a week, then weekly, as appearance allows, and accounting for rain.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed.
Uses: Ornamental, low water garden, butterfly garden.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Dogbane family (Apocynaceae). Queen butterflies (shown) are among the many butterfly species attracted to the flowers of this plant.

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