Bloodflower Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) is a tender erect perennial often grown as an annual. Also known as Tropical Milkweed, this wildflower is winter hardy in zones 9-11 and is easily grown from seed each year as an annual. It spreads quickly in disturbed areas and is frequently found naturalized in waste places, roadsides, or fields. Its bright orange-red flowers form in clusters on top of the leaves and stems that have a milky juice when damaged. Blooming from spring to fall in temperate climates. Plant it in the full sun in moist, fertile, well-drained soil. It will reach a height of 3 feet and a spread of 2 feet.
Bloodflower Milkweed is great for attracting hummingbirds, butterflies and a wide variety of pollinators. Attractive foliage and flowers for beds, borders, cottage gardens, meadows and butterfly gardens. Also a good cut flower. Dried seed pods are attractive in arrangements. Monarch Butterflies lay their eggs on the leaves and the larvae feed on the plants, but in some areas they bloom out of sync with Monarch migration patterns. Plant in rich, well-drained soil. These have a longer blooming period than most other milkweeds.
Common Names: Bloodflower Milkweed, Tropical Milkweed, Swallow Wort, Sunset Flower
Who is Great Basin Seed?
Great Basin Seed is a seed company that specializes in seed sales and consultation for home, ranch, farm, range and reclamation. We have been a leader in the seed industry since 1974.
Our History
We've been in the seed business since 1974.
What We Offer
We offer seed for home, farm, ranch, range and reclamation projects.
Meet the Gang
We have the best employees in the world! We are proud of the work they do, and trust them to serve you!
Right: Company founder Lloyd and his wife Paula Stevens in a wildflower seed production field circa 1977
