Showy Milkweed

Showy Milkweed lives up to its name with broad blue-green leaves and fragrant, four-inch clusters of rose-pink stars. This western native stands upright at about 40 inches, giving meadow plantings and naturalistic borders a clear, sculptural presence. The flowers offer nectar and pollen to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, while the foliage is a host for monarch caterpillars. Once established, this durable perennial handles dry conditions and returns each year in Zones 3–9. Botanical name: Asclepias speciosa Life cycle: Perennial Hardiness: USDA Zones 3–9 Exposure: Full sun to part shade Sowing: Fall sow outdoors or cold-stratify for spring sowing Planting depth: 1/4 in. Germination: 10–20 days after stratification Mature height: About 40 in. Final spacing: 18–24 in. Approximate seed count: 45 Seed-starting help: Tiny seeds, large opinions. This variety prefers a start in the open air. Review how to direct sow flower seeds and when to begin in your climate. Choose a permanent spot where the colony can support monarchs for years, and let some pods mature for their silvery autumn seed. Browse more native choices in our flower seed packets.