Also known as Short-Crowned Milkweed · Shortcrown Milkweed
Bract milkweed (Asclepias brachystephana) is a striking perennial with clusters of pink to purple flowers, vital for Monarch butterfly larvae.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in average room temperatures, but can tolerate cooler conditions during dormancy.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced fertilizer; not a heavy feeder.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Milky sap contains cardiac glycosides.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Asclepias brachystephana thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Allow soil to drain completely between waterings, as this plant is susceptible to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy to prevent overwatering.
Prune Asclepias brachystephana in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove any dead or damaged stems.
Deadheading spent flowers throughout the blooming season can encourage further flowering and prevent unwanted self-seeding.
Asclepias brachystephana can be propagated by seed sown in spring or by division of established clumps in early spring. Seeds may require stratification.
Division is best done when plants are actively growing, carefully separating root sections.
Repot Asclepias brachystephana only when necessary, typically every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix and a slightly larger pot.
Repotting is best done in early spring before active growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Bract Milkweed (Asclepias brachystephana)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
| Species | Asclepias brachystephana |
Similar in genus Asclepias
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
