Tropical milkweed (Asclepias curassavica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Tropical milkweed on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Tropical milkweed
Asclepias curassavica, known as 'röd sidenört' (red silk plant) in Swedish or 'butterfly flower' in English, is a tropical perennial herb, often grown as an annual in temperate climates. It stands out for its vibrant bicolored flowers, with orange petals and a red corona, which attract pollinators like monarch butterflies, for which it is a host plant. It is ideal for butterfly gardens, sunny borders, or pots where a touch of color and wildlife is desired.
Native range
Tropical Americas, including the Southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America
Care tips
It requires full sun for abundant flowering and well-drained soil, preferably sandy or loamy-sandy. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, especially during active growth and flowering periods. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can reduce flowering and make the plant more susceptible to pests. A common mistake is planting it in partial shade, which will result in fewer flowers and leggy growth.