Showy Milkweed
Asclepias speciosa
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and pets if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
This perennial plant is known for its large clusters of showy pink flowers and is a magnet for pollinators. Commonly known as showy milkweed, it serves as a host plant for monarch butterflies.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
- Water deeply once a week during the growing season for healthy development.
- Prune after flowering to encourage bushier growth and remove dead stems.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and mid-summer.
- Transplant seedlings or mature plants in early spring or fall for optimal establishment.
Pro Tip
Use stratified seeds for better germination, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering 🌞
- Water consistently during dry spells 💧
- Use organic fertilizer in spring and summer
- Prune to shape and remove dead stems
- Mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in shaded areas; it prefers full sun
- Refrain from neglecting pest control measures
- Don’t disturb roots during pruning
- Avoid using chemical fertilizers excessively
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Showy Milkweed questions
What zones can Showy Milkweed grow in?
Showy Milkweed is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Showy Milkweed deer resistant?
Yes — Showy Milkweed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Showy Milkweed bloom?
Showy Milkweed typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Showy Milkweed need full sun?
Showy Milkweed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Showy Milkweed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Showy Milkweed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Asclepias to compare
Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa
Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa 'Gay Butterflies Mix'
Butterfly Weed Gay Butterflies Milkweed
Asclepias tuberosa 'Gay Butterflies'
Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa 'Deluxe Butterfly Garden'
Hello Yellow Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa 'Hello Yellow'
Butterfly Milkweed
Asclepias x hybrida
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Showy Milkweed with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
