Description
Asclepias speciosa
Sole food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars, with edible seedpods!
This North American native was nearly eradicated from ditch banks, putting stress on monarch butterflies (Idaho's State Insect!) who rely on it for food. Shoots, pods, silks, and flower buds are edible, with an asparagus-like flavor. Will spread slowly from roots. Open-pollinated.
For more information about growing this plant, visit the USDA plant guide.
Seeds grown by Quel Ranch in Garden City, Idaho and sustainably wildcrafted in the Great Basin by Kyle and friends at Native-Seed Company.
50 seeds.
Directions: Direct seed in fall for best results, or early spring, or plant into outdoor pots in fall and transplant in late spring.
Planting Depth |
Seed Spacing |
Days to Germination |
Days to Maturity |
⅛” |
12-18” |
varies |
perennial |