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Showy Milkweed Seeds - Asclepias speciosa

Heirloom - Non-GMO - Reliable Germination

$4.99 USD
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Size: 1 Packet

What Makes Survival Garden Seeds Different - non-GMO heirloom seeds

Showy Milkweed stands as one of North America's essential native wildflowers, producing spectacular clusters of fragrant pink blooms that smell absolutely divine. It also serves as vital habitat for Monarch and Queen butterfly caterpillars. These large, fragrant flower heads bloom from summer through fall, creating stunning displays while providing essential nectar for hummingbirds, native bees, and countless pollinators. As a critical host plant in the Monarch migration pathway, each Showy Milkweed plant supports butterfly conservation efforts.  

This robust perennial reaches 2-4 feet in height with broad, silvery-green leaves and distinctive seed pods that release silky-tufted seeds in autumn.  Unlike tropical milkweed varieties, this cold-hardy native naturally dies back in winter, so you can feel great about supporting healthy Monarch migration patterns without parasite concerns. Naturally adapted to western North America, Showy Milkweed thrives in zones 3-8. The plant establishes deep taproots that provide excellent drought tolerance once mature. It spreads gradually through underground rhizomes, creating expanding colonies that increase essential butterfly habitat over time. 

Perfect for pollinator gardens, prairie restorations, butterfly habitats, and naturalized areas, this essential native wildflower combines striking beauty with profound ecological importance. Support Monarch butterfly populations while creating stunning garden displays with this cornerstone species that attracts hummingbirds and serves as a beacon for beneficial insects throughout the growing season.

  • Essential Monarch butterfly milkweed, Showy Milkweed serves as a critical host plant for Monarch and Queen caterpillars and supports conservation efforts in the USA
    Spectacular 2-4 foot plants produce large clusters of highly aromatic pink blooms above broad silvery-green foliage
  • Incredibly popular pollinator magnet that will attract hummingbirds, native bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects with its nectar-rich summer blooms
  • Exceptional drought tolerance  develops deep taproots and thrives in clay, loam, or sandy soils across diverse growing conditions
  • Cold-stratify for best results; once established, Showy Milkweed's self-expanding colonies spread naturally through rhizomes while producing abundant seed pods for more plants

Heirloom Native Plant Seeds

All of our seeds are open-pollinated, non-GMO, heirloom varieties with tested germination rates

Specifications

  • Botanical Name
    Asclepias speciosa
  • Seasonality
    Perennial
  • Planting Zones
    3-8
  • Light
    Full Sun
  • Soil Temp for Germination
    70-80 Degrees F
  • Germination Time
    10-15 Days
  • Planting Depth
    1/4 Inch
  • Plant Size
    2-4 feet tall, 1-2 foot spread
  • Growing Instructions
    Cold stratify seeds for 2-4 weeks. Sow indoors in a warm, bright spot with just a sprinkling of soil; light is required for germination. Keep moist but not soaked. Transplant outside after the last frost.
  • Seed Saving Instructions
    Harvest mature pods that release seeds when squeezed. Dry in a paper bag for 2-4 weeks, then separate the seeds and dry for another week. Label and store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 years.
  • Seed Count (approximate)
    -

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Diagram showing the growth stages of a native perennial plant over three years.

Native Perennials Are Worth The Wait!

Native perennials may not bloom in their first year. When planted from seeds, perennials put almost all of their energy into establishing strong, healthy root systems in the first year of growth. In the second year, you should see larger plants and some blooms. After the third year, you will be able to enjoy a bounty of beautiful blooms. Trust us! It will be worth the wait!

Cold Stratification Aids Germination

  • Yellow bowl with moist clean sand

    Step 1

    Lightly moisten some clean sand. Make sure it is not too wet.

  • Yellow bowl with moist sand and flower seeds

    Step 2

    Mix your seeds with the moist sand.

  • Moving moist sand with flower seeds to a labeled storage bag

    Step 3

    Store your sand in an airtight container like a zip-top bag. Make sure to label and date your container.

  • White refrigerator with a gold handle against a gray wall

    Step 4

    Refrigerate your sand and seeds for 2 to 4 weeks (or more, depending on the information on your seed packet)

Final Step

Sprinkle your sand with the seeds on the surface of prepared soil and gently press in. Most perennial seeds require light to germinate. Keep soil moist until germination occurs.

Support Native Habitats

  • Supports Local Ecosystems and Biodiversity: Native plants are uniquely adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, forming the foundation of healthy ecosystems. They provide essential food, shelter, and breeding grounds for a wide array of native wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, birds, and beneficial insects, which helps to maintain and enhance local biodiversity.
  • Requires Less Maintenance and Resources: Once established, native plants typically require significantly less water, fertilizer, and pesticides compared to non-native ornamental plants. Their deep root systems improve soil health and water penetration, reducing runoff and erosion, and their natural resistance to local pests and diseases minimizes the need for chemical interventions, saving time, money, and environmental impact.
  • Contributes to Climate Resiliency and Conservation: By supporting a healthy native plant community, you are helping to create more resilient landscapes that can better withstand the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events. Growing native plants also plays a crucial role in conserving local plant genetics, preserving the natural heritage of a region, and providing critical habitat corridors for wildlife facing habitat loss.
  • Detailed Growing Information: Paper seed packets include clear planting instructions, germination tips, and seed-saving info, great for beginner or experienced gardeners growing vegetables, herbs, flowers, or native plants.
  • Trusted USA Seed Company: Family-owned business providing heirloom, non-GMO, open-pollinated seeds; always fresh, untreated, rigorously tested, and expertly packed for long-term storage and gardening success across all experience levels

Why Choose Survival Garden Seeds

At Survival Garden Seeds, we believe in preparing today for tomorrow’s peace of mind. That’s why we offer only heirloom, non-GMO, and untreated seeds you can trust to nourish your family and support a sustainable lifestyle. As a family-owned American company, we’re committed to providing seeds that grow strong and true—helping you cultivate health, resilience, and beauty in your garden.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are your seeds heirloom and open-pollinated?

Yes. All of our seeds are heirloom, open-pollinated varieties, which means they can produce seeds that grow true to type and are suitable for seed saving.

You can learn more about open-pollinated, heirloom, and non-GMO seeds in our Survival Garden Training blog.

Are your seeds non-GMO?

Yes. All Survival Garden Seeds are 100% non-GMO. Our seeds are open-pollinated heirloom varieties and are never genetically modified.

Are your seeds treated with chemicals?

No. Our seeds are completely untreated and free from chemical coatings, fungicides, or synthetic treatments.

How do I know my seeds are fresh?

Every seed packet includes a packed-for date, and we germination-test each seed lot before packaging to ensure high viability.

What is the shelf life of your seeds?

Most seeds remain viable for 3 to 5 years or longer when stored properly in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture.

In what USDA hardiness zones can I grow your seeds?

Our varieties are selected to grow successfully across USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 10. Each packet includes variety-specific planting guidance and germination tips.