Apocynaceae
Asclepias curassavica
Tropical Milkweed
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
An erect, evergreen perennial subshrub growing up to 1 metre tall, with slender stems and opposite, lance-shaped leaves that often have white midribs. It produces showy clusters of red-orange and yellow flowers nearly year-round in warm climates. These blooms are followed by spindle-shaped pods that split open to release seeds with silky, white hairs for wind dispersal. All parts of the plant, including its milky sap, are poisonous if ingested and the sap can cause skin irritation.
Where it works in Kilifi
This plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating various soil types from dry to moist. It is ideal for butterfly gardens, mixed borders, or containers, offering vibrant colour and attracting pollinators. Space plants 30-60 cm apart.
Growing notes
It exhibits a medium to fast growth rate, maturing within one to two growing seasons. While drought-tolerant once established, consistent moisture promotes the best growth, and in frost-free regions, it remains evergreen. Pruning in the autumn can encourage new growth and help prevent the build-up of monarch butterfly parasites. Watch for aphids, which can be controlled with a strong water spray.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: wisc.edu, ncsu.edu, missouribotanicalgarden.org, wikipedia.org, planetdesert.com, eddmaps.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.