Desert Milkweed
Asclepias erosa
A resilient perennial milkweed native to the southwestern deserts with erect yellow-green stems and clusters of pale yellow to cream flowers. Critical host plant for monarch butterflies and essential for desert pollinator gardens.
Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)
Spring through summer (April-July), depending on moisture and elevation
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: amsonias and anacycluss also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Desert Milkweed is essential to the survival of monarch butterflies migrating through the western United States. It's the only plant monarch caterpillars can eat, and loss of milkweed habitat is a major factor in the decline of monarch populations. The plant's alkaloids provide monarchs and queen butterflies with chemical defenses against predators. It also supports numerous other desert pollinators including native bees and beetles.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun (6-8+ hours); needs intense sunlight
Water
Low water use; drought-tolerant once established; may rot in heavy soil with too much irrigation
Soil
Well-drained, Sandy, Rocky, Desert soils
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in well-drained sandy or rocky soil
Avoid overwatering—susceptible to root rot in heavy, wet soil
Goes dormant in winter; emerges in spring
Stratify seeds with cold treatment for better germination
Space plants 3-4 feet apart
No fertilization necessary in native settings
Hardy to 0°F (-18°C)
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Desert landscaping and xeriscaping
- Monarch butterfly and pollinator gardens
- Native plant restoration
- Wildlife habitat gardens
- Educational gardens about monarch migration
- Low-water desert gardens
Traditional Uses
- All parts are toxic if ingested in large quantities
- Latex traditionally boiled by Native Americans until hard and used as chewing gum
- Not recommended for medicinal use; primarily ecological value
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Desert Milkweed
Is desert milkweed good for monarch butterflies?
Yes! Desert Milkweed is essential for monarchs. It's the only plant monarch caterpillars can eat, and it provides critical habitat for the western monarch migration route through southwestern deserts.
How do you grow desert milkweed?
Plant Desert Milkweed in full sun with excellent drainage. Use sandy or rocky soil and avoid overwatering. Once established, it requires minimal water and no fertilization.
Is desert milkweed toxic?
Yes, like all milkweeds, Desert Milkweed is toxic if ingested. The toxic alkaloids protect the plant from herbivores and give monarch butterflies chemical defenses against predators.
When does desert milkweed bloom?
Desert Milkweed blooms from spring through summer (April-July), with timing dependent on moisture, temperature, and elevation. It goes dormant in winter and re-emerges in spring.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Amsonia
Amsonia tabernaemontana (and other spp.)
Amsonia, commonly known as Blue Star, is a native perennial with clusters of star-shaped blue flowers and excellent fall color. It symbolizes transformation, steadfastness, and spiritual guidance.
Anacyclus
Anacyclus pyrethrum (and other spp.)
Anacyclus is a low-growing perennial with daisy-like flowers that have white petals with red undersides. It symbolizes resilience, hidden beauty, and adaptation.
Big Sagebrush
Artemisia tridentata
An iconic aromatic shrub of the American West with silvery-blue foliage and pungent scent. Dominates vast landscapes across the Great Basin and provides critical habitat for wildlife.