Savannah milkweed, Asclepias pedicellata, is one of of the smallest of our native milkweeds. It occurs statewide in open upland habitats, such as pine flatwoods and prairie, but can easily be overlooked. Cedar Point is one local area where it occurs almost (for a native milkweed) in abundance. I have been trying to track it for the last few years. One year I staked out about forty plants in the spring but then we had a drought. This plant is not especially drought tolerant!
Flowering occurs in the summer. Yellow flowers are found near the top of the main stem. Its leaves are linear, opposite on the stem and only about 1-2 inches long. Though the plant may reach a foot tall it is usually shorter, at least at Cedar Point. It has a long, stout tap root.
This year we located several clumps of plants...thank you-Jack Lyons. When I found seed pods I collected them and was successful in having them germinate. The seedlings are not very big but they have a massive root system so I took a chance and transplanted them in the garden. Now cross your fingers, say a prayer or please just hope they grow and flourish.
Reference:
Online Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants www.florida.plantatlas.usf.edu/Plant.aspx?id=3188
Photo by Denny Girard