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Purple milkweed
Also known as: Red milkweed
Asclepias purpurascens (purple milkweed) looks much like common milkweed. However, common milkweed has grayish-pink flowers, and purple milkweed has reddish-purple ones. It’s difficult to grow in a garden and a rare find in the wild. The genus name of “Asclepias” comes from the Greek god of medicine. “Purpurascens” means “purple.”
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Toxic to Pets
Toxicity
Perennial
Lifespan
Herb
Plant Type
Late spring, Summer
Bloom Time
Mid summer
Harvest Time
61 cm to 91 cm
Plant Height
30 cm to 90 cm
Spread
Green, Red
Leaf Color
2.5 cm
Flower Size
Purple, Pink, Red
Flower Color
Deciduous
Leaf type
0 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature

Images of Purple milkweed

Distribution of Purple milkweed

Distribution Map
Purple milkweed is indigenous to the temperate regions of North America. Its presence spans the eastern and central areas of the continent, extending to the north where the climate is cooler. Purple milkweed has also been introduced and continues to thrive in its introduced setting in Europe. Known for its adaptability, it is now cultivated in various locales, signifying its successful establishment beyond its native range.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Savanna, Prairie/Meadow/Field
Hemisphere Trend Curve

Quickly Identify Purple milkweed

1
Vibrant deep purple to rose-pink flowers in clusters.
2
Ovate to oblong-lanceolate leaves with wavy margins and pubescent underside.
3
Elongated seed pods, splitting to reveal flat brown seeds with white hairs.
4
Symmetrical star-like flowers, 3/4 inch (2 cm) diameter in prominent clusters.
5
Erect stem with fine hairs, exuding milky sap, 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) tall.
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Care Guide for Purple milkweed

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
0 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Garden Soil
Soil Type
Water: Originating from North America's grasslands, purple milkweed prefers drier conditions and requires watering every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to partially dry. Indoors, it thrives in ample light and well-draining soil, needing consistent moisture during active growth for vibrant flowering.
Fertilize: Fertilize purple milkweed with balanced nutrition fertilizers in early spring and mid-summer using a low-rate, slow-release formula. Apply a handful per square meter and water afterwards to prevent root burn. Monitor purple milkweed's response and adjust fertilization for optimal growth during active and dormant phases.
Pruning: Purple milkweed thrives with selective pruning. Trim spent flowers after blooming and remove dead stems in early spring to boost health. Prune in late spring for shaping. Regular pruning fosters bushy growth and more blooms. Use clean, sharp tools to reduce stress and disease risk.
Propagation: Purple milkweed is propagated by sowing seeds directly in well-draining soil after stratifying them in refrigeration for several weeks to mimic winter. Shallow sowing is vital as light aids germination. Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering, as purple milkweed is sensitive to excess moisture.
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