Asclepias speciosa - Showy milkweed - Monarch Butterfly Host, Attracts Honeybees and Pollinators
The Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) is a hardy herbaceous perennial native to the western half of North America. It thrives in USDA zones roughly 3-9. It p referring full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils, including dry and gravelly types. Once established it needs little watering and minimal care.
In its first few years it typically grows to about 2-4 ft in height with a spread of similar dimensions, and under ideal conditions may reach up to 5-6 ft tall and wider spread. Its large bluish-green, soft-textured leaves form a clump from which rise upright stems topped by fragrant, star-shaped clusters of pink to purple flowers. Blooms from late spring into early fall.
The plant supports a large number of pollinators—especially Monarch butterflies. This plant also has historical uses for fiber and sap by indigenous peoples. Landscape uses include pollinator gardens, native wildflower meadows, dry slopes, and mixed perennial beds. You should monitor its spread because it will self-seed. With low maintenance requirements, good drought and cold tolerance, and attractive summer blooms, Showy Milkweed is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to support wildlife and create a resilient, native-plant display.
Available as....
Bare Root Plant - Available Late Winter 2026
Potted Plant - Available Early Summer 2026
Plants comes with detailed planting, growing and care instructions...and you can call or email if you have additional questions.
We ship to all states. Please put your desired ship date in Special Instructions to Seller at Checkout
If your temperature is warmer than 89 degrees or colder than 20 degrees, we will hold order until temperature improves. Please put your desired ship date in Special Instructions to Seller at checkout.
All plants are inspected for quality prior to shipment. Plants are rarely damaged in shipping, but if they are, please let us know right away so we can help. If there is any plant damage, take a photo of the package and plants. This will help us solve the problem.
11/25