Narrowleaf Milkweed

Narrowleaf Milkweed, Asclepius Fascicularis, is native to California. It is drought resistant once established. It dies off in the winter, which both reduces the parasite population and encourages monarch migration.

Aesclepius Fascicularis

 

Botanical Name Asclepias fascicularis Common Name Narrowleaf or California Milkweed
Plant Type Herbaceous perennial Bloom Time Summer, Fall
Mature Size 1.7 – 3.3 ft tall, 1 ft wide Flower Color White, Lavender, Pink
Sun Exposure Full sun Hardiness Zones Zone 9 (SF Bay Area)
Fertilizer None Necessary Planting Depth (Seeds) 1”
Soil pH 6.0 – 8.0 Plant Spacing 18”
Soil Type Any well-drained soil; tolerates clay soil and poor, dry conditions
NOTE 1: Can be toxic to children or pets if consumed in large amounts
NOTE 2: Can be a bit invasive, plant where you can manage it or where it’s okay to spread
Water: Needs water for only the first year or two until the tap root is established.
Native Area Throughout California except on coast and deserts

Special thanks to the folks at Mid City Nursery in American Canyon, CA for discounting Narrowleaf Milkweed plants for the Monarch Milkweed Project!

 

Sources:               Calscape: https://calscape.org/Asclepias-fascicularis-()

The Spruce:  https://www.thespruce.com/milkweed-plants-monarch-butterfly-host-2132954