Support your local monarch butterflies! Milkweed is the only food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars. Showy milkweed is a Saskatchewan native perennial that is more drought tolerant than other milkweed varieties. Large pink and white flower clusters attract pollinators as well. Packet contains ~ 30-40 seeds.
- perennial
- flowers in second year
- full sun
- mature height 3 feet (90 cm)
- blooms in summer
Milkweed - Showy Milkweed Seeds
Start milkweed seeds indoors 8-10 weeks prior to your last frost date. Can also be direct-sown in the fall.
Cold stratification is required for germination. Place seeds in a moist paper towel inside a plastic bag or container. Keep in the fridge for 3-4 weeks before seeding.
Press seeds into soil and cover lightly. Keep moist until germination in ~10-15 days.
Transplant after risk of frost has passed in a sunny location with plants spaced 18 inches (45 cm) apart.
Asclepias speciosa
Also known as swamp weed, butterfly weed