Asclepias speciosa Showy Milkweed

Fragrant pinkish-white to pinkish-purple blooms of Showy Milkweed will attract pollinators to the garden all spring and summer. Asclepias speciosa is a marvelous addition to any landscape especially one that is being naturalized. Leaves are the primary source of food for the monarch butterfly larvae making this a noteworthy addition to the garden. After flowering, the seed pods split open revealing silky-tailed seeds that disperse in the wind. Prior to splitting, seed pods can be used to enhance any fall bouquet. Asclepias speciosa adapts well to woodland areas with openings for sun, dry slopes, along streams, and along roadsides. A milky sap emanates when leaves are cut or bruised. These plants are drought tolerant, versatile and deer resistant making them a splendidly low maintenance addition to any landscape.