Protected Series:
Zone: 3SHOWY MILKWEED
Asclepias speciosa, commonly known as the Showy Milkweed, is a resilient and structurally impressive perennial that stands out in the native garden for its grand, velvety appearance. It typically reaches heights of 2 to 3 feet, featuring thick, opposite leaves covered in fine, white hairs that give the entire plant a soft, silver-green appearance. From late spring through mid-summer, it produces large, globe-shaped umbels of star-shaped flowers that range in color from pale pink to deep rose-purple. These blooms are not only aesthetically striking but also emit a delightful, spicy-sweet fragrance that draws in a wide array of pollinators.
To thrive, Asclepias speciosa requires a spot that receives full sun and well-draining, moderately dry to average soil. It is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established, thanks to its deep taproot, and performs well in varied soil types including clay, loam, or rocky substrates, provided it is not left in standing water. It is a vital host plant for the Monarch butterfly, and its nectar-rich flowers make it a magnet for swallowtails, hairstreaks, and native bees. Because it spreads via underground rhizomes, it is best suited for naturalized areas, meadows, or the back of a pollinator border where it has the space to form a healthy, self-sustaining colony.
| PLANT | SIZE | TYPE | GALENA | ADD'L | DIG | SOON |
| ASCLEPIAS SPECIOSA | con 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 121 |
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To help this plant settle in and thrive, we recommend these standard planting practices: Plant it in well-draining soil with full sun. Water it regularly, but avoid overwatering. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
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