Silky Deep Red Tropical Milkweed

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-4 Feet

Mature Spread

2-3 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 9

The striking flowers of the Silky Deep Red Tropical Milkweed last from late spring into fall and will be a consistent burst of color all summer long. Deep red and brilliant orange flowers burst forth in small groupings. The lance-shaped foliage of this upright thriller is glossy green. This Milkweed cultivar is also known by the scientific name Asclepias curassavica or Mexican Butterfly Weed.

This perennial is a large plant that can reach 4 feet tall, making it wonderful to feature along foundation walls, borders, or mass plantings. Place it near a window or door so you can admire the many pollinators that will be drawn to the fragrant blooms. The flowers can be used in fresh or dried arrangements. Silky Deep Red Tropical Milkweed is native to North America, so it is easy to maintain as well as being deer-resistant for added convenience. This plant grows as a perennial in USDA zones 3 through 9.

Silky Deep Red Tropical Milkweed Care

This Milkweed needs at least 6 hours of sunlight to thrive, so plant in a sunny location. Soil should be rich, moist, and well-draining. Once settled in, Milkweed can be drought-tolerant, but check the soil during a dry spell and water if the top several inches are dry.

Milkweed is not a heavy feeder and typically grows well in poor-quality soil, but top dress the soil with organic compost during the spring or apply a slow-release plant food to kick start growth. Cut back growth in the fall after the flowers fade. Removing the spent flowers will prevent the plant from going to seed, but it also prevents butterfly colonies from detouring from their migration patterns.

Silky Deep Red Tropical Milkweed Spacing

This tall perennial will reach 3 to 4 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. Plant about 3 feet from buildings and trees, but space 2 to 3 feet center to center from other plants for a full and lush mass planting.