Asclepias curassavica (Tropical Milkweed)
Noted for its very long blooming season, Asclepias curassavica (Tropical Milkweed) is an upright evergreen sub-shrub boasting eye-catching clusters of orange-red flowers adorned with yellow hoods from early summer to fall. Flowers are a great source of nectar for butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, and other beneficial insects.
Noted for its very long blooming season, Asclepias curassavica (Tropical Milkweed) is an upright evergreen sub-shrub boasting eye-catching clusters of orange-red flowers adorned with yellow hoods from early summer to fall. Flowers are a great source of nectar for butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, and other beneficial insects. The blooms occur on upright stems clad with lance-shaped, fresh green leaves. They give way to long, narrow seed pods in the fall. When the seed pods open, they reveal seeds with long, 3-4 in. (6-10 cm), silvery-white, silky hairs. A great choice for the flower garden and for natural settings.
Requirements
| Hardiness | 9 – 11 |
|---|---|
| Heat Zones | 6 – 11 |
| Climate Zones | 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
| Plant Type | Shrubs |
| Plant Family | Asclepias |
| Exposure | Full Sun |
| Season of Interest | Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall |
| Height | 2' – 3' (60cm – 90cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 18″ – 24″ (45cm – 60cm) |
| Water Needs | Low, Average, High |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
| Tolerance | Deer, Dry Soil, Wet Soil |
| Attracts | Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers |
| Garden Styles | Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow |