scarlet milkweed

Description:

Asclepias L. (1753), the milkweeds, is a genus of herbaceous perennial, dicotyledonous plants that contains over 140 known species. It previously belonged to the family Asclepiadaceae, but this is now classified as the subfamily Asclepiadoideae of the dogbane family Apocynaceae. Milkweed is named for its milky juice, which contains alkaloids, latex, and several other complex compounds including cardenolides. Some species are known to be toxic.

Habitat:

Throughout the Philippines, in settled areas, in open waste places, and in about settlements, ascending to at least 1,500 meters. Pantropic weed of American origin.

Notes:

Another scarlet milkweed spotted in a garden in Tagaytay City, this one has an okra like seedpod.