Growing Zones
3-9
Light
Full Sun
Duration
Perennial
Size
~2-4 ft (60 to 120 cm)
Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) is a fascinating member of the milkweed family, Asclepiadaceae, known for its remarkable appearance and ecological importance. This perennial herbaceous plant, found in western North America, is recognized by its tall stems, large elliptical leaves, and clusters of brilliant pink to lavender flowers. Showy Milkweed is an important component of many ecosystems, providing an essential resource for a variety of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and insects. Furthermore, it is a preferred host plant for monarch butterfly larvae, making it an important contributor to the conservation of these iconic insects. Aside from its ecological usefulness, Showy Milkweed offers a touch of natural beauty to meadows, prairies, and gardens, making it a popular species among nature lovers and gardeners alike.
Names:
Scientific Name: Asclepias speciosa
Plant Family: Apocynaceae
Other Names: American silkweed, Jewelweed, Silken cissy, Silkweed, Swallow wort, White Indian hemp
Native range:
AZ, CA, CO, IA, ID, IL, KS, MI, MN, MT, ND, NE, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA, WI, WY
Bloom Information:
Bloom Color: Pink to purple
Bloom Time: Late Spring, Early Summer
Requirements
Water Needs: Average
Soil Drainage: Well-drained
Soil Type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acidic, Alkaline, Neutral
Considerations:
Monarch caterpillars are veracious eaters, so plant more than you think you will need!
