Prairie Milkweed Seed Packet

"I first encountered Prairie Milkweed on a milkweed photography trip in Kansas in the 90’s. This species stands out as it has very succulent leaves that have striking veins. As the name states it grows in prairies and spreads through underground runners. What struck me on this trip was standing in a prairie and seeing how a particular plant had spread. Each one has a slightly unique pattern of pink and white flowers." — Bobby Gendron

The Facts:

• Latin name: Asclepias sullivantii
• Quantity of seeds per packet: 25
• Monarch butterfly host plant
• Pink and white flowers
• Native to the eastern and central United States
• Hardy perennial
• 36" - 60" tall
• Blooms from June until August
• Cold hardy in USDA zones 3 - 11

Growing Instructions: Start Prairie Milkweed seeds outdoors in late November. Pick a location with full sun and prepare soil for good drainage, if needed. Plant seeds 1/8" deep and 18” apart, using 3 seeds per hole. Water once, and then allow the winter rain and/or snow to provide moisture until the spring. The seeds will germinate 10 - 20 days after the danger of nighttime freezing has past. Once the seedlings reach 1", thin out so you have individual plants spaced 18” apart. Water regularly allowing the soil to go nearly dry between each watering. Fertilize monthly in the summer with a general purpose fertilizer. If you prefer to plant the seeds outdoors in the spring, read our detailed instructions on cold moist stratification.

Prairie Milkweed Range Map:

Map ©: Kartesz, J.T. 2013. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP).

Prairie Milkweed is native to the following states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Wisconsin