Description
Showy Milkweed
This hardy perennial, whose scientific name comes from the Greek god of medicine, is a favorite of butterflies. This species has traditionally provided food, medicines and fiber. The clusters of star-shaped flowers will range from dark-rose to white for on tall woody stems with milky sap and with alternate, oval leaves that are velvety underneath. These plants grow well in a variety of locations from prairies and open woodlands to roadsides. The seeds are very easy to grow and do well when planted in the fall or when cold-treated for up to three months prior to planting. Showy Milkweed will spread through seed distribution and underground shoots. Monarch Butterflies lay their eggs on the milkweed and the larvae feed on the plants. Note that these plants contain cardiac glycosides, chemicals, that are toxic when eaten and make the Monarch Butterflies also toxic to any would be predators. These seeds have a high percentage of dormant seeds, so to achieve better germination, cold treat the seeds by planting in the late fall or put seeds in a plastic bag in the refrigerator with a damp paper towel for several weeks before planting in the spring.
Color: Rose/Pink
Height: 24-36″
Type: Perennial
Climate: Sun-Dry
Seeds/lb.: 72,000
Rate: 1oz./60 sq.ft.
Bloom time: May-July
Packet weight: 1 gms (approx. 75 seeds)
