Asclepias californica
California Milkweed
A California Native milkweed that is the host of monarch butterflies throughout its entire life. The leaves are thick and woolly. The flowers are a dark pink. This milkweed can reach a height of up to three feet tall and wide.
The Kawaiisu tribes of California ate California Milkweed as candy, when cooked, the milky sap is flavorful and chewy.
Plant with: Madrone (Arbutus menziesii), Pines (Pinus sp.), Junipers (Juniperus sp.), Manzanita (Arctostaphylos sp.), Ceanothus sp., Oaks (Quercus sp.), and Coyote Brush (Baccharis sp.). Also include other butterfly-attracting herbs such as members of the Asteraceae family, other Milkweeds (Asclepias fascicularis or speciosa), thistles (Cirsium sp.), Buckwheat (Eriogonum sp.), Mint (Monardella sp.), and Sage (Salvia sp.)
- Best in full sun
- Water well for the first month
- Attracts birds and butterflies
- Drought tolerant
- Hardy up to 5 degrees
- Toxic
- California Native