Photo of Asclepias verticillata flower, foliage by Almost Eden

Photo by Almost Eden

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Asclepias verticillata

Also Known As

  • Whorled Milkweed

Plant type

perennial

size

  • H: 18"-30"
  • W: 12"-24"

planting zones

  • 4a-10b

More Options

Asclepias verticillata plant details

Asclepias verticillata is a broadleaf deciduous perennial with green foliage. In summer cream and white flowers emerge. Attracts bees, beneficial insects and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, clay, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Asclepias verticillata

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: apocynaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 12 IN - 24 IN - wide, 18 IN - 30 IN - tall
Flowers: cream and white blooms in summer
Uses: cottage garden, easy-to-grow

GROWING CONDITIONS for Asclepias verticillata

USDA Zones: 4a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat
Soil needs: average, clay, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Clusters of small white to greenish-white flowers are borne mainly in summer among the finely textured, narrow, dark-green foliage of Whorled Milkweed. This is a tough, native, taprooted perennial found throughout all but the most western portions of the US as well as into Canada. Whorled Milkweed is a host to the Monarch and Queen butterflies. To learn more about the beneficial insects that Milkweeds support see our growing guide: Milkweed: Much More than Just a Monarch Host. This species is considered especially toxic to livestock.

Gardening facts about Asclepias verticillata plant

How to Grow Asclepias verticillata

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - mostly sun
  • Water Needs

    • occasional - drought tolerant
  • Water Needs

    • dry in summer
  • Soil Needs

    • clay
    • adaptable
    • average
    • lean
    • well-drained
    • rocky
    • gritty
  • Special Situation

    • heat tolerant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • white
    • cream
  • Wildlife

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

    • summer
  • Foliage Season

    • deciduous
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