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Milkweed II

High Plains Public Radio | By Skip Mancini
Published August 2, 2012 at 7:08 PM CDT
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The more than 140 species of milkweed  have a long and varied history.  Named Asclepius for the Greek god of healing, its medicinal uses are many.  However, several species are toxic, so if the plant is used as a health remedy, the user should be well-informed in advance.  The physical properties of milkweed have resulted in various uses for the stems and fluff-filled seed pods, including a wartime effort by World War II's greatest generation.

MilkweedMilkweed usesMonarch Butterflies
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Skip Mancini
Years ago Skip Mancini left the rocky coast of Northern California to return to her roots in the heartland. Her San Francisco friends, concerned over her decision to live in a desolate flatland best known for a Hollywood tornado, were afraid she would wither and die on the vine. With pioneer spirit, Skip planted a garden. She began to learn about growing not only flowers and vegetables, but hearts and minds. If you agree that the prairie is a special place, we think you'll enjoy her weekly sojourns into Growing on the High Plains.
See stories by Skip Mancini
  1. Butterflies are on the move, and Oklahomans are keeping track of them in monarch conservation effort
  2. When a Kansas county wants people to plant milkweed but a city makes them rip it out
  3. Tagging events for Monarchs, the ‘poster child’ of pollinators, help conservation efforts
  4. As monarch butterflies are placed on the endangered species list, here's what Kansans can do to help
  5. With Insect Decline Looming, Colorado Officials Bring In A Bug Expert