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Asclepias curassavica (bloodflower, scarlet milkweed)
Species Distribution Map: Click to enlarge
Map Color Key © 2013 BONAP

Asclepias curassavica

bloodflower, scarlet milkweed

Asclepias curassavica is a tender perennial that grows upright and tall with spiraling lanceolate leaves. The flowers, in small scarlet red and orange umbels, are very bright and showy, and wonderful at attracting Monarch butterflies. Bloodflower is a milkweed and thus contains a milky sap that exudes from the foliage when cut or damaged.

SIZE
Asclepias curassavica - 72 per flat Availability
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Height

24-30 Inches

Spread

12-24 Inches

Spacing

12 Inches

Bloom Color

Orange

USDA Hardiness Zone 9-11

bloodflower, scarlet milkweed Interesting Notes

The seed pods of bloodflower are showy and have been used dried as ornaments.

Asclepias curassavica Growing and Maintenance Tips

Best in full sun in moist, well-drained soil.

Good Substitutions

star tickseed Coreopsis pubescens 'Sunshine Superman'
soft rush Juncus effusus
Japanese aster Kalimeris integrifolia 'Daisy Mae'

Key Characteristics & Attributes

Full Sun
Full Sun
Moist
Moist
Deer Resistant
Deer Resistant
Pollinator-friendly
Pollinator-friendly
Songbird-friendly
Songbird-friendly
Summer
Summer

Additional Information

Soil Moisture Needs
Average
Plug Type
Horticultural Plug
For Animals
Caution: Toxic
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Late Summer
Propagation Type
Open pollinated