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Information by: The Plant Nerd Inc.        Photographer: Dave Anderson CVWD

Description

Herbaceous upright succulent grows at a moderate rate to 4' tall and wide. Basically leafless, gray green stems provide a strong vertical accent for landscapes. White flowers borne in clusters spring to fall. Accepts reflected sun. Native to the Sonoran Desert. Butterfly and hummingbird attractor. Larval food of the Monarch Butterfly.

Maintenance Tips

Asclepias subulata is a perennial that is known for being a host plant to the Monarch butterfly. This species of milkweed is native to deserts and has an arid look with stems that are often leafless. It can grow up to 4’ tall and wide and can resemble a large tuft of grass with creamy flowers at the tips. It is rarely grown in a garden for its aesthetic value and is commonly planted to bring butterflies into the garden. Since it is a host plant, the butterflies will lay eggs on the plants, and the caterpillars will eat the leaves, stems, and flowers. Pruning is rarely necessary, as the caterpillar's appetites usually take care of maintaining the size of the plant. This is a drought tolerant, sun-loving plant, so make sure to plant in full sun in well-drained soil to ensure its success.