Funastrum cynanchoides var. hartwegi

Description

Funastrum cynanchoides var. hartwegi is a milkweed that emerges from a large tap root during spring and summer to form a rapidly growing vine that may climb to a height of 8 or 10 feet. The vine winds over and through all vegetation near the emergent point. Leaves are linear and in pairs, Purplish flowers have a fringe of tiny hairs and form as a cluster. Foul-smelling milky white sap is released from a damaged stem; it is toxic and irritates the skin. It may be difficult to completely wash off the skin. This species grows in sandy areas of deserts and riparian areas, between about 2500 and 4500 feet elevation.