ASCLEPIAS incarnata 'Soulmate'

Description

Asclepias incarnata ‘Soulmate’

Height & Spread 80cm x 60cm

Asclepias is found in the swamps and marshy areas of the United states of America, however Asclepias incarnata ‘Soulmate', was bred for the cut flower market and is remarkably tolerant of somewhat, more free-draining sites in the UK. Flowering from July- August on tall, straight stems, this plant is a magnet for butterflies and bees. The leaves are lanceolate and the flowers are arranged in umbels of highly fragrant, vanilla scented, pink flowers with white or pale pink centres.

The new growth is slow to appear in spring but a little patience will reward you with a clump of up-right stems from May. Pinching back the new stems by one set of leaves early in its growth, will encourage it to produce double the number of stems, It produces a deep tap root so lifting and splitting plants roots is not advised. However, the production of viable seeds within attractive heads in autumn, will provide potential for adding extra plants to your garden.  Avoid cutting the plant down in the winter as the stems are hollow and can fill with water and subsequently rot. Just bend the stems over to prevent wind rock if needed.

Plant in a sunny site away from harsh winds and ensure the area is mulched each spring to maintain moisture. Full sun is a must as planting in shade will cause the tall stems to lean. Removing stems for cut-flower arrangements during flowering will cause no harm as it will have time to heal before the onset of the winter wet. However, the sap is toxic and gloves should be worn when handling cut stems. This plant enjoys rich clay soil as long as it’s not allowed to dry out completely.  Asclepias is a robust plant that has no serious disease or insect problems.