Showy Milkweed

Showy milkweed is a western North American perennial with sturdy upright stems, broad gray-green leaves, and rounded clusters of pink to pinkish-purple flowers. It is a strong choice for native meadows and pollinator gardens where it can spread and set seed without crowding smaller plants. ## Flowers and wildlife Flowering extends from late spring into summer, with [USFS](https://research.fs.usda.gov/feis/species-reviews/ascspe) documenting a May–August season across the range. The flowers provide nectar for pollinators, and the foliage is a food source for monarch caterpillars; the [U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service](https://www.fws.gov/species/showy-milkweed-asclepias-speciosa) confirms its support for pollinators and monarchs. The USFS review reports stems about 20–47 inches tall; local conditions affect mature size, and the existing catalog dimensions remain plausible. ## Siting Give it full sun and well-drained soil. The species grows in dry-to-medium conditions and also occurs near streams and in moist prairie sites. It is native across much of western North America, so choose locally appropriate milkweed for regional wildlife plantings. Its deep roots make established plants difficult to transplant. ## Maintenance Allow space for its mature stems and wind-dispersed seed. Remove pods before they split if you want to reduce self-seeding, or leave them to support natural renewal. Sap from milkweed stems can be irritating or harmful if ingested, so handle cut material carefully.