What are the adaptive features of the swan plant?

Answer 1

The swan plant, or milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), produces a long taproot which goes over a foot into the soil. If the plant is pulled up, the taproot is broken and will produce another plant. In addition, the roots grow laterally, and can send up new plants.

The juice of the swan plant is quite bitter, so it is generally avoided by plant-eating animals. The flowers are quite attractive to many insects, however, which helps in the process of pollination.

The plant produces feathery-like seeds, which, borne on the air, can go long distances, ensuring the survival of the species.

Answer 2

The swan plant, or Asclepias physocarpa, has several adaptive features that help it survive in its environment. These include its ability to produce toxic compounds in its leaves to deter herbivores, its ability to store water in its swollen stems during dry periods, and its production of fragrant flowers to attract pollinators for reproduction.