Showy Milkweed - Prairie Native

Showy Milkweed is a long lived perennial that is an important host plant for monarchs, and a rich nectar source for many pollintors. Showy Milkweed forms large and dense patches as the it spreads by seed and roots. It is an excellent plant ofr prairies, areas where you want to help wildlife with minimal upkeep. This is native to the central and western United States.  USDA Zones 3-8. grows to 2-4'

 Botanical name: Asclepias speciosa

Characteristics: 

• Perennial and hardy to zone 3
• Plants grow to 4' tall
• Prefers well-drained loams, wet areas and rain gardens
• Blooms in June and July
• Preferred food source of Monarch caterpillars
• .9g or ~90 Seeds per packet 

Instructions - Sow seeds indoors in flats 1/4" deep, moisten the soil, cover with plastic, and refrigerate for 10 days. Thereafter, provide light and 50-75°F. This moist stratification is not absolutely necessary but will help to increase germination.

• Start Indoors - 8-10 weeks before the last frost
• Sow 1/4" deep
• Germination 10-15 days
• Plant 12-24" apart

Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute seed vendors from time to time because of the availability