Showy Milkweed
Asclepias speciosa
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Showy Milkweed Photo Gallery
Basic Information
Order
Gentianales
Family
Apocynaceae
Size
1.5-3 ft
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Complexity
Simple
Leaf Shape
Ovate
Blooming Season
Spring - Early Fall
Bloom Color
Pink
Attracts
Butterflies, Hummingbirds, Butterflies, Bees
Danger
Warning! Showy Milkweed is one of the least toxic of the milkweeds! However, absolute certainty of identification is a must! As some other Milkweed species are highly poisonous and fatal if consumed. To be clear! We don't recommend attempting to consume this plant!
Showy Milkweed Habitat
Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) thrives in the prairies of mid-west to the mountain meadows of Yellowstone down through the canyon country of the southwest. It needs a fair amount of water, full sun and relatively moist soil.
Showy Milkweed Facts
Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) is a sturdy, minimally branched perennial. It generally grows up to 3 ft. with large blue-green leaves. Its name "Milkweed" derives from its sap, which is milky. Native American tribes used Asclepias speciosa in many ways, including medicinal and as a food source. Also, Showy Milkweed is a larval host to the Monarch Butterfly.