Asclepias subulata

Common Names

Desert Milkweed, Rush Milkweed, Ajamete, Cane Milkweed

Summary

Evergreen perennial with upright, mostly leafless gray-green succulent stems forming a strong vertical accent; grows about 3–4 ft tall and wide; white flower clusters bloom from spring through fall; native to the Sonoran Desert in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico; extremely drought-tolerant and sun-loving; monarch butterfly caterpillars use it as a larval host, and flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

Prefers full sun and well-drained soil, tolerating sandy, clay, loam, and rocky substrates, with very low water needs once established; pruning to the base every 3–5 years rejuvenates growth; propagation by seed or cuttings; landscape uses include background, entry, foundation, patios, raised planters, pool areas, and rock gardens, suiting Ranch, Spanish, and Wild Garden styles; hardy in zones 9–11; attracts monarchs and other pollinators; milky sap can irritate skin and all parts are toxic if ingested.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

3-6 ft

Spread

3-4 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 9-11

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun, partial sun, partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-drained sandy soil

Soil Drainage

Very well-drained soil

Soil pH

6.6–8.5, neutral to alkaline

Bloom Color

Cream, white, or yellow.

Bloom Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Foliage Color

Grey Green

Fall Foliage Color

No fall color — evergreen

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Moderate

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds and cuttings

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, other pollinators