Asclepias speciosa (Showy Milkweed)

California Showy Milkweed, Greek Milkweed, common milkweed

A perennial that grows up to six feet tall and four feet wide.  It has large narrow leaves and pink flower clusters that bloom in the summer.  This Milkweed provides food for monarch butterfly caterpillars and provides nectar for hummingbirds and nest building materials for other birds.  This goes deciduous in the winter.

- Plant in full sun

- Tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including clay

- Mulch heavily

- Water well for the first month

- Attracts butterflies, birds, and hummingbirds

- Drought tolerant

 - Poisonous to dogs

- California Native