Showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa)

Showy milkweed

Though it is poisonous to dogs, cats, and horses, showy milkweed provides an extremely important food source to the monarch and other types of butterflies. It can be very invasive and in most areas is considered a weed. The fluffy "floss" from showy milkweed, however, has similar properties to goose down - it is now being cultivated as a cheaper alternative for jacket and sleeping-bag insulation.

Scientific classification

Species

Showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa)

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

46 cm to 1.3 m

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

Green, Blue, Gray

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Showy milkweed

Attributes of Showy milkweed

Growth Rate

Showy milkweed's moderate growth rate during spring and summer aids in steady development contributing to robust stem thickening, abundant leaves, and impressive flowering displays. The balanced pace also ensures energy allocation for survival, resilience, and defense against seasonal pests. Variations in growth may be negligible.

Culture

Garden Use

If you plant the showy milkweed in your pollinator or wildlife garden, you're sure to attract plenty of monarch butterflies and other pollinators. It works as a showy addition to beds and borders in these types of gardens, as well as native gardens and rock gardens, especially when its showy blooms appear in the late spring. It's resistant to deer and tolerates drought conditions well.

Symbolism

Remembrance, dignity and freedom

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Toxicity

Poisoning from showy milkweed typically occurs from accidental ingestion of the sap, which is the most dangerous part. Most milkweed plants are toxic, and showy milkweed is moderately toxic to both cats and dogs. Symptoms in pets include gastrointestinal distress and respiratory issues. Immediate veterinary care is crucial in case of poisoning.

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Quickly Identify Showy milkweed

Robust perennial up to 3 feet (91 cm) tall forming clumps through rhizomes.

Large, hairy, oval gray-green leaves in opposite pairs up to 5 inches (13 cm) long.

Spherical clusters of pale pinkish-purple star-shaped flowers with reflexed calyces.

Drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun with minimal watering requirements.

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Care Guide for Showy milkweed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from North American prairies, showy milkweed thrives in moderately moist environments and withstands drought. Weekly watering supports its health. Best grown outdoors, showy milkweed excels in rain gardens, utilizing natural rainfall to minimize supplemental watering needs.

Fertilize: Fertilize showy milkweed with balanced nutrients every 2-3 weeks in spring for optimal growth and blooms, avoiding excess to protect adaptability. Cease fertilization during dormancy and follow specific guidelines to prevent root burn, enhancing showy milkweed's resilience and ornamental value.

Pruning: Showy milkweed thrives with vibrant blooms and robust growth, benefiting from pruning in early to late spring. Remove damaged stems to encourage healthy growth, maintain shape, and improve airflow, reducing disease risk. Proper pruning supports vibrant aesthetics and enhances its role as a pollinator attractor in ecosystems.

Propagation: Propagate showy milkweed in Spring via sowing, noting moderate difficulty. Successful propagation shows vigorous roots and budding. Enhance germination rates by pre-chilling seeds.

Repotting: Repot showy milkweed every 2-3 years in early spring for optimal growth. Use a spacious pot with well-draining soil and water regularly. Maintain consistent but moderate care to prevent root rot, ensuring showy milkweed thrives while accommodating its large root system.

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