Silky Gold Tropical Milkweed

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3 - 4 Feet

Mature Spread

2 - 3 Feet

Silky Gold Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Silky Gold') brings a touch of sunshine to any garden with its golden-yellow flower clusters and bright green lance-shaped leaves. Blooming continuously from late spring through early fall, this herbaceous perennial grows 3 to 4 feet tall and up to 3 feet wide, creating a bold vertical statement. Beloved by monarch butterflies and other pollinators, this cultivar offers both ornamental beauty and ecological importance as a host plant for monarch caterpillars.

Native to South America, Silky Gold thrives in full sun and adapts well to poor, well-drained soils. It is drought-tolerant once established and resistant to deer and rabbits. This fast-growing plant is perfect for naturalized meadows, wildlife gardens, and sunny borders. Its long, upright stems make it an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements. While this species is perennial in zones 8 to 11, it is often grown as an annual in cooler regions. When grown in containers, it adds bold color to patios and can be overwintered indoors in colder climates.

Silky Gold Tropical Milkweed Care

Plant Silky Gold Tropical Milkweed in full sun for the best blooms, though it tolerates light shade. It prefers sandy to loamy, well-drained soil and benefits from regular watering during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Afterward, water only when the top inch of soil is dry. Fertilization is optional, as this milkweed performs well in nutrient-poor soil, but an occasional application of balanced fertilizer during the growing season can enhance flowering. Mulch lightly around the base to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.

Deadhead flowers throughout the summer to extend the blooming period. In fall, cut the plant back to 6–8 inches after all caterpillars have left to prevent overwintering diseases that could impact monarch migration. For container-grown plants, trim back stems and bring the pot indoors before the first frost in colder zones. Gloves are recommended when pruning due to the milky sap, which can irritate skin.

Silky Gold Tropical Milkweed Spacing

Space plants 24 - 36 inches apart in garden beds for an airy, natural look that supports healthy airflow and growth. In mass plantings or pollinator habitats, closer spacing of 18 inches can create a denser display. For container plantings, choose a pot at least 12 to 16 inches wide to accommodate the plant's upright growth and root system.

Photo(s) by 2006 Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man)

SKU:

SGTMSILKY-GC