Asclepias cordifolia (Heartleaf Milkweed)

Asclepias cordifolia (Heartleaf Milkweed) is a perennial wildflower prized for its spreading umbels of dark pink to dark purple flowers produced from late spring to mid-summer. Borne on individual pedicels, the flowers weep downward, resembling small fireworks. They attract pollinators and their nectar supports beneficial insects that are natural predators of many crop pests. They are followed by beautiful elongated seed pods. The large opposite leaves are heart-shaped and their waxy coating gives them a frosted appearance. Monarch butterfly caterpillars eat the leaves, which contain alkaloids that cause the butterfly to be unpalatable to predators. During the fall, each seed pod splits open to release many flat seeds with silky hairs. Native to the western United States, Heartleaf Milkweed grows in dry, rocky areas in woodlands, chaparral, and evergreen forest. Heartleaf Milkweed blooms in its second year. It is a great choice for the butterfly garden and for natural settings.

Milkweed plants are critical to monarch butterflies’ survival, whose population in North America has plummeted by 90% in the last 20 years. By planting milkweed in your own garden, you can help reverse the fortune of these beautiful insects!

• Grows up to 1-2 ft. tall (30-60 cm).
• Thrives in full sun to partial shade in dry to medium, well-drained soils. Grows well in rocky soil.
• Low maintenance, this perennial plant is generally pest and disease free. Deer resistant.
• Perfect for cottage gardens, butterfly gardens, and prairies or naturalized areas.
• Propagated by seed (no treatment).
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Native to California, Nevada, and Oregon.