Showy Milkweed
Asclepias speciosa
Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) is a Colorado-native perennial suited to the Colorado Front Range. It matures to about 30 in tall and 12 in wide, needs low water, and prefers full sun. CO native perennial; supports pollinators.
Colorado nativelow water30 in tall and 12 in wideXeric / water-wiseDeer-resistantToxic to dogs
Photos
At a glance
- Botanical name
- Asclepias speciosa
- Type
- Perennial
- Mature size
- 30 in tall and 12 in wide
- Water needs
- low water
- Sun
- full sun
- Colorado native
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- clay, loam, sandy
- Soil pH
- 6.5–8.0
- Hail tolerance
- high
- Wind tolerance
- high
- Salt tolerance
- moderate
- Bloom color
- pink, purple
- Bloom time
- early summer, mid summer
- Pollinator value
- high
- Good for
- slope
Planting & establishment
Native perennial; deep-water first season to establish, then minimal water needed.
Frequently asked questions
- Is Showy Milkweed good for the Colorado Front Range?
- Yes. Showy Milkweed is included in the Front Range Plant Finder as a perennial suited to Colorado's Front Range.
- How big does Showy Milkweed get?
- It matures to about 30 in tall and 12 in wide.
- How much water does Showy Milkweed need?
- It needs low water once established.
- Is Showy Milkweed safe for dogs?
- No — Showy Milkweed is considered toxic to dogs. Keep pets away and check with your vet.
