Bountiful Gardens

The Monarch’s Beacon: Asclepias curassavica

Tropical Milkweed is a fast-growing sub-shrub. Indoors, it provides a structural, upright look with lance-shaped leaves. Because it is a "pioneer plant," it grows with a sense of urgency—blooming early and often if its needs are met.

Suggested Placement in the Home

• The South Window: This plant is a sun-seeker. It needs the brightest spot in your house to prevent it from becoming "leggy" (stretched out).

• The Sunny Kitchen: It appreciates the slightly higher humidity found in kitchens, provided there is a massive amount of light.

• Away from Pets: Important Note: Like all milkweeds, the "milky" sap contains cardenolides, which are toxic if ingested. Place it on a high shelf or pedestal away from curious cats or dogs.

Care & Maintenance

• Deadheading: To keep the plant looking tidy and encourage a second flush of red-and-yellow blooms, pinch off the faded flower clusters before they turn into seed pods.

• Sap Safety: When pruning or taking cuttings, wear gloves. The white latex sap can irritate the skin and is especially painful if it gets in your eyes.

• Pest Patrol: Indoors, milkweed is a magnet for Oleander Aphids (tiny bright yellow bugs). Don't panic! A simple blast of water in the sink or a wipe with soapy water usually does the trick.

The Essential Tip for Beginners

The "Pinch" for Fullness: If left alone, Tropical Milkweed can become a single, tall, skinny stick. To get a bushy, "florist-quality" look, pinch off the top inch of the main stem when the plant is about 6 inches tall. This forces the plant to branch out into two or three stems, giving you more leaves and way more flowers!