Asclepias labriformis

Common Names

Utah Milkweed, Labriform Milkweed, Poison Milkweed

Summary

Utah milkweed is native to deserts and arid regions of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It is a herbaceous perennial reaching about 8 to 20 inches tall with stout erect stems and thick, leathery leaves. Creamy yellow to yellowish-green flowers appear in umbels. Seedpods are balloon-like with silky hairs for wind dispersal. The plant attracts butterflies and bees, supporting desert biodiversity. It tolerates USDA zones 5–8.

Germination benefits from cold stratification. Seeds should be placed in a moist medium such as sand or paper towels and refrigerated for several weeks, then sown in well-draining soil, lightly covered, and kept consistently moist at temperatures around 70 to 85°F. Germination typically occurs in 1–3 weeks, and seedlings are delicate, requiring ample light for establishment in arid habitats. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, and it is drought-tolerant and suitable for dry landscapes. It serves as a host plant for monarch and queen butterflies. It contains cardiac glycosides, which render it poisonous if ingested. It is non-invasive.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

1-3 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun to partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained sandy soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil, including dry sandy soils.

Bloom Color

White to cream to yellow, yellowish-green to greenish-white

Bloom Time

Spring and Summer

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds

Attracts Wildlife

Bees, butterflies, other pollinators