Use of Asclepias syriaca L.: history, status and prospects

Abstract

Aim. Asclepias syriaca L. is a kenophyte of the North American origin, agriophyte, European-Mediterranean-North American modern distribution area, actively naturalized throughout Ukraine, local invasive or transformer species. It distributes uncontrollably and occupies large areas, polluting them, posing a serious threat to natural communities. Therefore, the aim of the work is to find out the resource potential and possible ways of using A. syriaca. Methods. To achieve this aim, a number of works by both domestic and foreign researchers were analyzed. An Invasive Species Assessment Protocol (Morse et al., 2004) was used to assess the impact of the selected species on biodiversity. Results. The studied species has a long history (since the XVIII century) and a wide range of valuable economic qualities of the plant. A. syriaca has been used in various industries as rubber, in the textile, spinning and biofuel industries, pharmacy and medicine, beekeeping, cosmetology and perfumery, as a food and ornamental plant, insecticide. However, milkweed poses a serious threat to natural communities. Mostly, the species distributes uncontrollably, occupies large areas, polluting them. Conclusions. Today in Ukraine seed hairs are used as filler for coats, but this is done by private entrepreneurs. It should be noted that after this remains a lot of waste that can be used as biofuel, as it is done in leading European countries. However, on the territory of our state there is no large-scale cultivation of the species and its use for economic purposes. Given the pace, character of the distribution and economic value, milkweed is a promising potential resource species and requires additional research and financial costs. The use of A. syriaca will make it possible to suspend the largely uncontrolled spread of this species and avoid negative impact on natural communities.