Purple Milkweed

purple milkweed (Asclepias purpurascens)

 

Milkweed is the essential host plant for monarch caterpillars and a nectar source for many pollinators. All of our milkweeds are hardy perennials that return year after year once established.

 

Spring 2027 Availability: This is a new species we are working to propagate for Spring 2027. Availability will depend on successful germination and growing conditions.

 

plant profile

Purple Milkweed is a beautiful native perennial with broad green leaves and striking clusters of deep rose purple flowers. Similar in appearance to Common Milkweed, it is distinguished by its richer flower color and more compact growth. It naturally occurs in open woodlands, woodland edges, meadows, and other areas ranging from full sun to partial shade.

 

Growing conditions

  • Size: 2 to 3 feet tall, 1 to 3 feet wide
  • Light: Full sun to partial shade 
  • Soil: Well drained; adaptable to a range of soil types
  • Water: Moderate; tolerates drier conditions once established
  • Bloom time: Late spring through summer
  • Lifecycle: Perennial

 

planting instructions

  • Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
  • Dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball and set the crown level with the soil surface.
  • Space plants 18–24 inches apart and allow additional room for the colony to spread over time. 
  • Water thoroughly after planting and regularly while the plant becomes established. Reduce supplemental watering once established.

  • Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and well drained soil.

 

seasonal growth pattern

  • Year 1: Establishes its root system and produces upright leafy growth. Flowering may be limited while the plant becomes established.
  • Year 2: Produces stronger growth and more reliable flowering
  • Year 3 and beyond: Returns reliably each spring with established growth and seasonal blooms
  • Fall & Winter: Seed pods mature and split to release wind dispersed seeds. Above ground growth dies back for winter and returns in spring.

 

care

Purple Milkweed performs well in full sun to partial shade and adapts to a range of well drained soils. Water regularly while the plant becomes established. Once established, it can tolerate drier conditions and generally requires little supplemental watering except during extended dry periods.

 

notes

  • Produces striking deep rose purple flower clusters
  • Similar in appearance to Common Milkweed but generally shorter and more compact.
  • Naturally occurs in both sunny and partially shaded habitats.
  • Considered rare in Tennessee and designated a Special Concern species by the state.