Purple Milkweed (Asclepias purpurascens) Quick Facts:
USDA, NRCS. 2016. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov)
Host plant to Monarch butterflies, nectar to many
Herbaceous perennial
Native to most of central, northeast and southeast US
Hardy in USDA zones 3a – 9b
Full sun to partial shade
Prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Beautiful, fragrant purple flowers around July-August
2-3 feet tall by 1-3 feet wide
Space 1-2 feet apart
Seeds need 30 day cold stratification or fall sow
May take 2-3 years to flower, but some have bloomed the first year
Rare
We have seen Purple Milkweed plants die back early the first year (they don’t do much the first year), however, they will usually come back in mid spring next year so take care of the roots for the rest of the summer as if a plant was still there (good compost and water if it gets too dry)!
May take 2-3 years to flower.
** Purple Milkweed is easy to germinate and grow to a juvenile plant, but keeping it alive for more than one season, blooming, and setting seeds can be difficult. If the first-year plant grows to a height of a foot or more, you’ll usually have a bloom the following year. We are unable to give replacements or refunds on seed or plant purchases due to the fussy nature of this species.
tturner1183 (verified owner) –
I just received mine today and I’m so excited! This is my first milkweed and I’m doing more than just trying to fix up my garden; I’m trying to help out my community since native plants are becoming a rarity now. Was surprised to learn about this variety of milkweed as the only native ones I was familiar with were of the common and swamp variety. Thank you so much. I’ll be keeping you updated on its progress as well as keeping my eyes open for your swamp milkweed plants.
Sincerely, Terry.
Dori Soileau (verified owner) –
Arrived today and I was amazed at how healthy and good sized the plant is! No wonder it keeps selling out! First purchase from joyful butterfly and will not be the last!
khaliliscool20 (verified owner) –
It arrived quickly and the plant was in good health. I planted it in a 50/50 sun/shade area and it generally did quite fine, apart from the occasional oleander aphid attack, which I regrettably had to hinder with neem oil due to the plants rarity. Made sure to water regularly or I got leaf drooping. Great plant and amazing price, especially seeing how rare it is. I would not recommend this purple milkweed for anyone besides experienced gardeners.