Description
Asclepias speciosa | Showy Milkweed
Showy Milkweed, also commonly known as Creek Milkweed, Greek Milkweed, Pink Milkweed, American Silwkeed, and Showy Butterfly Weed is a native North American perennial known for its large, fragrant star-like blooms of large, showy, rounded clusters (umbels) that are pink, white, or purple, with velvety gray-green leaves, and prominent seed pods.
In its native habitat, it can be found in prairies, savannas, and other open spaces. It does not tolerate shade and may be best suited in garden settings where it’s valued for its ornamental appeal and ecological benefits. It spreads less aggressively than Common Milkweed and its deep and sturdy root system can handle most soil types.
In late summer into fall, narrow seed pods split open when ripe releasing distinctive silky-plumed seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Asclepias speciosa is an important nectar source and food for the larval stages of Monarch and Queen butterflies. The Monarch Butterfly will lay eggs on this plant and the resulting larvae (caterpillars) use the plant leaves as a food source. The leaves contain a milky latex that is hazardous to most animals, but the caterpillars are adapted to feed on them despite the chemical defense.
Seeds germinate easily with heat, water/humidity, and light.
Type: Perennial
Sun exposure: Full sun to light shade
Mature height: 3-6 ft
Mature width: 2-3 ft
Hardiness zones: 3-9
