SHOWY MILKWEED
ASCLEPIAS SPECIOSA
Asclepias speciosa
photo courtesy of Plant Finder
SHOWY 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.
Scroll table horizontally to view all stock & quantities →
| PLANT |
SIZE |
TYPE |
GALENA |
ADD'L |
DIG |
SOON |
| No current sizes listed in database. |
Current inventory will be listed above this line. Contact Sales Rep for details. |
Click for key & info
KEY:
con = containers - available now
Galena = Above ground and available now
Additional = Remote location, call rep. Not in Shop.
Dig = Still in ground, call rep. Not in Shop (in orange).
Soon = Coming soon, call rep. Not in Shop.
(BBnPOT - formerly known as GRSTART - are B&B put into a container - they are available now)
