Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa)
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Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) is similar in form to Common Milkweed but less aggressive, which makes it a more manageable plant in the garden. About 3 feet high, it features large oval leaves, and spikey pink flower clusters atop thick stems. The very fragrant blooms give way to prominent 2 – 3 inch long seed pods, and the leaves turn bright gold in the fall. Native to the western U.S. and upper Midwest, this milkweed tolerates a variety of soil types and conditions, and is very drought tolerant.
Showy Milkweed is a host plant for the Monarch butterfly, Queen butterfly, and the Milkweed Tussock Moth. All plants in the Asclepias genus, otherwise known as milkweeds, are host plants for the Monarch butterfly.
Info Source: Prairie Nursery
| Habitat | Oak Woodland, Upland Prairie and Savanna, Wet Prairie |
|---|---|
| Mature height | 2-3’ |
| Shade preference | full sun |
| Soil tolerance | Moderate moisture; tolerates seasonal flooding; showy milkweed is water loving (Narrow-leaved milkweed tolerates drier conditions than showy milkweed in general) |
| Special uses | Attracts insects, bees and butterflies; Ornamental; Deer resistant |
