Milkweed (Asclepias spp.)

Sun Needs:

• Full sun
• Tolerates light shade but prefers full sun for best growth and flowering

Bloom Time:

• Summer (typically June to August)

Size:

Height: 2 to 5 feet tall, depending on the species
Width: 18 to 36 inches wide

Attributes:

• Showy clusters of pink, orange, or white flowers
• Attracts pollinators—especially monarch butterflies
• Drought tolerant and easy to grow
• Supports native wildlife
• Tolerates poor, dry soils
• Deer resistant
• Strong, upright growth habit
• Silky seed pods that can be used in crafts
• Not invasive in all areas but check local guidelines

Companion:

• Coneflower (Echinacea)
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
• Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
• Lupine (Lupinus)
• Bee Balm (Monarda)
• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
• Shasta Daisy (Leucanthemum)
• Yarrow (Achillea)
• Milkweed varieties can also pair well with other wildflowers in a meadow garden setting.