Asclepias linaria (Pine-Needle Milkweed)

Asclepias linaria (Pine-Needle Milkweed) is an upright subshrub with many erect or ascending stems bearing soft, finely textured, pine needle-like leaves, 1-2 in. long (2-5 cm), along their length. From winter to fall, small clusters of lightly fragrant, creamy-white flowers are borne at the stem tips. They are a great nectar source for butterflies, bees, and other pollinating insects. The blossoms give way to tear-shaped seed follicles that open to release their white plumed seeds. Native to the Southwestern U.S., this perennial wildflower is drought and heat-tolerant and makes an attractive desert landscape plant with its interesting shape and unusual flower clusters that attract butterflies and other insects.