Funastrum hirtellum - (A.Gray) Schltr.

The leaves are edible after cooking. Raw consumption is not recommended [2-3]. Edible Uses & Rating: Low to moderate food value. The leaves are usable but relatively small and labor-intensive to gather [2-3]. Taste, Processing & Kitchen Notes: Cooked leaves have a reasonably pleasant flavor. Unfortunately, the hairy leaf surfaces create a raspy texture that remains noticeable even after cooking. The flowers are also palatable but are not widely documented as edible. Boiling reduces bitterness and latex-related flavors [2-3]. Seasonality (Phenology): Blooms primarily from February through May. Tender leaves are available during the active growing season. Safety & Cautions (Food Use): Contains milky latex like all milkvines. Thorough cooking is essential. Consume only in moderation [2-3]. Harvest & Processing Workflow: Collect young leaves, rinse thoroughly, boil until tender, and discard the cooking water if desired. Cultivar/Selection Notes: No cultivated forms are known. Look-Alikes & Confusion Risks: Closely resembles other milkvines, especially when not in flower. Traditional and Historical Uses: Limited use of food has been recorded compared with other desert vegetables [2-3].

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.


Funastrum hirtellum, commonly known as rambling milkweed or hairy milkweed, has no documented modern or traditional medicinal uses. Like many plants in the dogbane or milkweed family (Apocynaceae), it contains toxic latex and should be considered poisonous rather than medicinal

Supports numerous native pollinators including bees, butterflies, and wasps.

Special Uses