Showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) is a stunning native plant for the pollinator garden. Showy milkweed is covered in fragrant blooms in summer months and the large leaves are an attractive gray color. After blooming, the plant produces large seed pods that contain seeds with silky tassels. Individual plants spread by underground rhizomes and via self-sowing. Showy milkweed is a tall plant and can reach up to 6 ft in height. It goes dormant in winter months and can be pruned during the dormancy season.

Showy milkweed is an important butterfly host plant, especially for the Monarch butterfly. Adult butterflies feed on the flower nectar and caterpillars eat the leaves.

Showy milkweed is easy to grow and thrives in diverse environments from mountain meadows to the coast. It does best in full sun and should be planted in well-drained soil. For heavy clay soils, consider ammending with grit to improve drainage. Remove seed pods to prevent self-sowing. 

Water Use: Light to Medium

Light Requirement: Sun

Soil Moisture: Damp to dry

Soil type: Sand, loam, ammended clay

Soil pH: 6-7

Drought Tolerance: High

Perennial

Special attributes: Larval host for butterflies, attracts beneficial insects, hummingbird plant, and deer resistant.