perennial

Whorled Milkweed

Asclepias verticillata

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Yes

The Story

Plant Bio

Asclepias verticillata, commonly known as whorled milkweed, is a perennial herb characterized by its slender, upright stems and whorled, narrow leaves. It produces clusters of small, star-shaped white flowers that attract pollinators. This species is notable for its ability to thrive in well-drained soils and is highly valued for supporting monarch butterfly larvae and other pollinators.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking green foliage and attracts pollinators, enhancing garden biodiversity.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, suitable for sustainable landscapes.

Supports butterfly populations by providing nectar and habitat.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
Keep soil consistently moist until germination, about 2-3 weeks.
Place in full sun for best flowering results.
Water regularly during first growing season to establish roots.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Allow seed pods to mature for natural propagation; avoid overwatering once established.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Prune dead stems in late winter
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not disturb roots during peak flowering
Skip fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Divide
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Nectar-rich border for pollinatorsWildflower meadow accentButterfly garden feature

Companion Plants

Echinacea Asarum Solidago Rudbeckia Monarda

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Whorled Milkweed questions

What zones can Whorled Milkweed grow in?

Whorled Milkweed is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Whorled Milkweed deer resistant?

Yes — Whorled Milkweed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Whorled Milkweed bloom?

Whorled Milkweed typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Whorled Milkweed need full sun?

Whorled Milkweed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Whorled Milkweed drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Whorled Milkweed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.