Milkweed

• Butterfly Weed Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)

Sun Requirements: Full Sun

Water Requirements: Low to Moderate

Height: 1-2 feet

Bloom Time: Summer

Description: Butterfly Weed Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a native Texas perennial known for its vibrant orange or yellow flowers that attract butterflies, especially monarchs. It serves as a critical host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars, providing essential food and habitat. Thriving in hot, sunny locations with well-drained soil, Butterfly Weed Milkweed is drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for pollinator gardens and natural landscapes in Texas.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained soil.
• Space plants 12-18 inches apart.
• Water regularly until established, then water occasionally.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring

Nativity to Texas: Yes

• Antelope Horns Milkweed (Asclepias asperula)

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade

Water Requirements: Low to Moderate

Height: 2-3 feet

Bloom Time: Summer

Description: Antelope Horns Milkweed (Asclepias asperula) is a native Texas perennial featuring greenish-white flowers and distinctive seed pods resembling antelope horns. It is a vital host plant for monarch butterflies, providing essential food and habitat for their caterpillars. Thriving in well-drained soil, Antelope Horns Milkweed is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for butterfly gardens and naturalized areas in Texas.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained soil.
• Space plants 12-24 inches apart.
• Water regularly until established, then water occasionally.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring

Nativity to Texas: Yes

• Green Milkweed (Asclepias viridis)

Sun Requirements: Full Sun

Water Requirements: Low to Moderate

Height: 1-3 feet

Bloom Time: Summer

Description: Green Milkweed (Asclepias viridis) is a Texas native perennial known for its greenish-white flowers that bloom in summer, attracting butterflies and other pollinators. It is an essential host plant for monarch butterflies, providing critical habitat and food sources for their caterpillars. Thriving in sunny locations with well-drained soil, Green Milkweed is drought-tolerant once established, contributing to biodiversity and monarch conservation efforts in Texas gardens and natural landscapes.

Planting Tips:

• Plant in well-drained soil.
• Space plants 12-18 inches apart.
• Water regularly until established, then water occasionally.

Ideal Season for Planting in Texas: Spring

Nativity to Texas: Yes