Photo of Asclepias cancellata flower by Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Photo by Annie's Annuals & Perennials

Used with permission, all rights reserved

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Asclepias cancellata

Also Known As

  • Wild Cotton

Plant type

perennial

size

  • H: 2'-4'
  • W: 2'-4'

planting zones

  • 8a-11

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Asclepias cancellata plant details

Asclepias cancellata is a broadleaf semi-evergreen perennial with green foliage. In spring and summer purple and white flowers emerge. Features glossy texture. Attracts bees and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun and regular - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, rich and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Asclepias cancellata

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: apocynaceae
Foliage: semi-evergreen green
Mature size: 2 FT - 4 FT - wide, 2 FT - 4 FT - tall
Flowers: purple and white blooms in spring and summer

GROWING CONDITIONS for Asclepias cancellata

USDA Zones: 8a - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: regular - low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat
Soil needs: average, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This is a beautiful, shrubby butterfly plant from South Africa. It has glossy green leaves and large clusters of flowers. The buds are purple and then open to intricate white flowers. The flowers then develop into fluffy seed heads, hence the name “Wild Cotton”. The plant grows to be about 2-3’ tall. The flowers provide nectar to butterflies and the plant itself is host to butterfly larvae. It is beneficial to wildlife and is beautiful in the garden.

Gardening facts about Asclepias cancellata plant

How to Grow Asclepias cancellata

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun
  • Water Needs

    • regular - drought tolerant
  • Soil Needs

    • adaptable
    • average
    • well-drained
    • rich
  • Special Situation

    • heat tolerant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • white
    • purple
  • Wildlife

    • bees
    • butterflies
    • deer resistant
    • rabbit resistant
  • Flower Season

    • summer
    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • semi-evergreen
  • Texture

    • glossy

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