Finding milkweed that's native to your region can be quite daunting, so we did the hard work for you! This ultimate guide to buying native milkweed serves as a comprehensive resource for finding Milkweed that's native to your local region, reputable sources to buy native milkweed as live plants or seeds, and we list basic care tips as well as alternatives to purchasing online. Monarch butterfly conservation starts with buying native Milkweed!

The Ultimate Guide to Buying Native Milkweed

Are you ready to welcome more butterflies to your garden? Planting native milkweed is one of the best ways to attract these beautiful pollinators. With the increasing awareness of the ecological roles that butterflies play, gardeners are seeking ways to make their gardens not just visually appealing, but also environmentally beneficial. In this guide, we’ll explore where to find and buy native milkweed and go over why it’s an essential addition to your garden. Whether you want to buy native milkweed seeds or live plants, we’ve got you covered with reputable vendors of each. Before we continue, this article has a sister guide you may be interested in reading next. It’s our Ultimate Guide to Milkweed Cultivation!


Buying native milkweed is extremely important, if you introduce a non-native species of Milkweed to your local area, Monarchs may not recognize it as a food source or even as a usable host plant. At worst, it can outcompete the local Milkweed species and cause much more harm than good.

Why Choose Native Milkweed Over A Different Species?

Native milkweed is crucial for the survival of Monarch butterflies. Monarchs have a symbiotic relationship with Milkweed, relying on it exclusively during the caterpillar stage of their life cycle. This plant serves as both a food source and a habitat for their caterpillars. Unlike non-native varieties, native milkweed is adapted to the local climate and ecosystem, making it a sustainable choice for your garden. Non-native species, while sometimes easier to grow, disrupt local ecosystems and fail to provide the necessary resources for local wildlife.

Benefits of Native Milkweed

  1. Supports Local Wildlife: Native Milkweed provides essential food and habitat for monarchs and other pollinators, like bees. This support is vital in maintaining the health of local ecosystems, which can be fragile and easily disrupted by human activities.
  2. Low Maintenance: Native plants are adapted to local conditions, requiring less water and care than their non-native counterparts. This makes them an excellent choice for eco-conscious gardeners who want to minimize their garden’s environmental footprint. Once established, these plants require minimal intervention, thriving with the natural weather patterns of your region.
  3. Eco-Friendly: Native Milkweed helps maintain biodiversity and ecosystem balance by supporting a wide range of local species. Its presence can prevent the spread of invasive species that might otherwise take over and reduce the biodiversity of an area. In addition, native plants often have deeper root systems that help with soil stabilization and water filtration.

Where to Buy Native Milkweed

Finding the right place to buy native milkweed is crucial for ensuring you get quality plants that will thrive. You should research your local area to identify specific businesses, but consider these places when looking for native milkweed:

Local Nurseries and Garden Centers

Your local nursery is a great place to start when searching for native Milkweed. They often carry plants that are well-suited to your region’s climate, ensuring that your Milkweed will have the best chance to thrive. Additionally, purchasing from local nurseries supports your community and reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping plants. Plus, as long as your local nursery has them, you can get advice from experts on how to care for your Milkweed. The staff at these nurseries often have firsthand experience with the plants they sell and can provide valuable insights into local gardening conditions.

Online Retailers

There are numerous online stores where you can buy native milkweed seeds and plants. Websites like Amazon and Etsy have businesses that are dedicated to Monarch conservation, offering a wide range of options tailored to different regions. Buying online can be especially advantageous for those in remote areas where local options are limited. However, it’s essential to ensure that these retailers are reputable and that their products are genuinely native to your area. For each variety of Milkweed we talk about, we will have a link to a reputable source to purchase. Always do your research too, as reading reviews and checking their certifications can assure quality and authenticity.

Choosing Milkweed Varieties Based On Your Region of the United States

For this guide on finding and buying milkweed, we thought it'd be best to take each region of the united states, break it into chunks, and list species that are native to those chunks. Find your region here! Always confirm that the species listed is actually native to your exact locality.

There are many different varieties of Milkweed, each suited to different regions and growing conditions. Understanding these differences will help you select the best type for your garden and local climate. This section will have a quick overview of our recommended native species, while the next section will have a detailed description of each species listed here. You may see the same species listed multiple times across regions. In both this section and the next, these varieties will have a link to a reputable source for seeds or live plants. The links you see for each species in this section will be for live plants, while our next section will have links to both Seeds & live plants. The vendors we’ve chosen are reputable sources, so no need to worry about pesticides or bad growing practices.

This section serves to help you choose the right type for your specific region of the United States:

The Northeast United States:

When selecting milkweed varieties for the Northeast United States, you should consider Common Milkweed (Asclepias Syriaca) and Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias Incarnata). Common Milkweed is widely recognized for its tall stature and broad leaves, making it a staple in many gardens. It thrives in a variety of soil types and can adapt to different light conditions, providing a reliable food source for Monarch caterpillars. It’s also native to over 80% of the United States. On the other hand, Swamp Milkweed is perfect for wetter areas, flourishing in moist soils near ponds or streams. Its beautiful pink and white flowers attract butterflies but also support a diverse range of wildlife. This makes it an excellent choice for enhancing the biodiversity of your garden.

The Northwest United States:

When selecting milkweed varieties for the Northwest United States, You’re mostly limited to Showy Milkweed (Asclepias Speciosa). Showy Milkweed, known for its striking appearance, adds visual interest to gardens while also supporting local wildlife. Both varieties are essential for creating a vibrant and sustainable garden that attracts butterflies and contributes to the local ecosystem. Depending on exactly where you are in the Northwest, Narrowleaf Milkweed (Asclepias Fascicularis) may be an option. You will need to do your own research to confirm this. This species features slender leaves and clusters of pink flowers that bloom in the summer.

The Southeast United States:

Consider options like Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias Tuberosa) and Aquatic Milkweed (Asclepias Perennis). Butterfly Milkweed is known for its vibrant orange flowers and drought tolerance, making it a favorite among gardeners. This variety thrives in well-drained soils and full sun, providing a crucial food source for Monarch caterpillars. Aquatic Milkweed, on the other hand, is ideal for wetter areas and can often be found near ponds or streams. Its delicate white flowers not only enhance the beauty of your garden but also support a variety of wildlife, making it an excellent choice for those looking to create a diverse and thriving ecosystem.

The Southwest United States:

Desert Milkweed (Asclepias Subulata) and Antelope Horns (Asclepias Asperula) are great choices for the Southwest. Desert Milkweed is well-suited for arid conditions, featuring slender leaves and clusters of yellow flowers that bloom throughout the summer. This variety is drought-tolerant and thrives in sandy soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. Antelope Horns, is known for its unique horn-like seed pods and can grow in a variety of soil types. Its flowers attract not only Monarch butterflies and other pollinators, contributing to a vibrant and diverse garden ecosystem. Both varieties are great choices for supporting local wildlife and enhancing the beauty of your Southwestern garden.

The Midwest And Central United States:

When selecting varieties for the Midwest/Central United States, options like Common Milkweed (Asclepias Syriaca) and Prairie Milkweed (Asclepias Sullivantii) make great choices. As we’ve stated above, Common Milkweed is a very robust plant, thriving in a variety of soil types. Common Milkweed is also known for its tall stature and broad leaves, making it a favorite among gardeners. It provides a vital food source for Monarch caterpillars and attracts many pollinators with its fragrant pink and purple flowers. Prairie Milkweed, on the other hand, is well-suited for drier conditions. Its flowers feature clusters of pink flowers that bloom throughout the summer. Both varieties will support Monarchs but also enhance the beauty and ecological health of your garden, making them excellent choices.

Arizona:

When selecting milkweed varieties for Arizona, consider options like Arizona Milkweed (Asclepias Angustifolia) and Desert Milkweed (Asclepias Subulata). Arizona Milkweed is a drought-tolerant species that thrives in the arid climate. This species features slender leaves and clusters of vibrant yellow flowers that bloom throughout the summer. This variety is particularly beneficial for attracting local pollinators, including Monarch butterflies, due to its high nectar production. Desert Milkweed, on the other hand, is well-adapted to sandy soils and can withstand extreme heat. This makes it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. Both varieties not only enhance the beauty of your garden but also play a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem by providing essential resources for wildlife.

California:

When selecting milkweed varieties for California, consider options like Narrowleaf Milkweed (Asclepias Fascicularis) and California Milkweed (Asclepias Californica). Narrowleaf Milkweed is well-suited for the state’s diverse climates. This species features slender leaves and clusters of pink flowers that bloom in the summer. This variety is perfect at attracting Monarch butterflies, providing their only food source as a caterpillar. California Milkweed, on the other hand, is native to the coastal regions and thrives in well-drained soils. Its beautiful flowers not only enhance the visual appeal of your garden but also support local wildlife. Both varieties are excellent choices for creating a vibrant and sustainable garden in California.


The Pros Of Each Milkweed Species Listed Above

Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)

  • Characteristics: This tall plant features broad leaves and clusters of pink to purple flowers. Common Milkweed is widespread across the United States and is a vital component of many native gardens, offering essential resources for Monarchs and over 450 other insect species!
  • Flowers: The flowers of Common Milkweed vary from pink to vibrant purple and emit a sweet, pleasant fragrance.
  • Height: It can reach heights of about 5 feet, with leaves measuring 6-8 inches long and 2-3 inches wide.
  • Growing Conditions: While it can tolerate some shade, it generally prefers full sunlight and can thrive in various soil types, from sandy to clay.
  • Where to Purchase: Available online as live plants and seeds.

Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias Incarnata)

  • Characteristics: This species thrives in moist environments, making it visually appealing while supporting a variety of aquatic and semi-aquatic wildlife.
  • Flowers: Swamp Milkweed blooms from early to mid-summer, with flower colors ranging from white to pink and even vibrant mauve.
  • Height: It can grow up to 5 feet tall, with thin leaves measuring 6 inches in length and 1.5 inches in width, tapering to a point.
  • Growing Conditions: Ideal for gardens with poor drainage or near ponds and streams, it thrives in soil with varying moisture levels, from average to rich, wet, and low-oxygen conditions. It can tolerate partial shade but flourishes in full sunlight.
  • Where to Purchase: Available online as live plants and seeds.

Showy Milkweed (Asclepias Speciosa)

  • Characteristics: Known for its striking appearance, Showy Milkweed can serve as a focal point in any garden.
  • Flowers: This species flowers from May to August, showcasing colors that range from light pink to light purple, with a unique star shape and a fragrant aroma.
  • Height: It can grow up to 4 feet tall, with leaves measuring between 4-8 inches long.
  • Growing Conditions: Thriving in savannahs or prairies, this species is drought-tolerant and prefers sunny locations, making it suitable for arid and semi-arid regions.
  • Where to Purchase: Available only as seeds online.

Butterfly Weed (Asclepias Tuberosa)

  • Characteristics: Butterfly Weed is a stunning perennial that features bright orange flowers, making it a standout in any garden. This species is particularly attractive to pollinators, including Monarch butterflies, due to its high nectar content. Its deep taproot allows it to thrive in dry, well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to create a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscape.
  • Flowers: The vibrant orange flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, creating a striking visual display that draws in a variety of beneficial insects.
  • Height: This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall, with leaves measuring 3-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide.
  • Growing Conditions: Butterfly Weed prefers full sun and well-drained soils, thriving in areas with low moisture. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and for gardeners in regions with limited rainfall.
  • Where to Purchase: Available online as live plants and seeds.

Aquatic Milkweed (Asclepias Perennis)

  • Characteristics: Aquatic Milkweed is a perennial plant that thrives in wetland areas, making it an excellent choice for gardens near ponds or streams. Its lush green foliage provides a habitat for various wildlife, while its flowers attract pollinators.
  • Flowers: The flowers of Aquatic Milkweed are typically white or pale pink, blooming from late spring to early summer, and are known for their sweet fragrance that draws in butterflies and bees.
  • Height: This species can grow up to 4 feet tall, with narrow leaves that can reach lengths of 6-12 inches.
  • Growing Conditions: Aquatic Milkweed prefers consistently moist to wet soil and full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for rain gardens or areas with poor drainage.
  • Where to Purchase: Available only as seeds online.

Desert Milkweed (Asclepias Subulata)

  • Characteristics: Desert Milkweed is a resilient plant that thrives in the harsh conditions of the Southwest, featuring slender, narrow leaves and clusters of bright yellow flowers that bloom throughout the summer. This species is particularly well-suited for xeriscaping, as it requires minimal water once established, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious gardeners in arid regions.
  • Flowers: The flowers of Desert Milkweed are vibrant yellow, attracting a variety of pollinators, including Monarch butterflies, with their high nectar content.
  • Height: This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall, with leaves measuring 1-2 inches wide and 6-12 inches long.
  • Growing Conditions: Desert Milkweed prefers well-drained sandy or rocky soils and full sun exposure, making it ideal for dry landscapes. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand extreme heat, thriving in the challenging conditions typical of the Southwest.
  • Where to Purchase: Available only as seeds online.

Antelope Horns (Asclepias Asperula)

  • Characteristics: Antelope Horns is a unique milkweed variety known for its distinctive horn-like seed pods and attractive clusters of purple flowers. This species is particularly beneficial for attracting a variety of pollinators, including Monarch butterflies, due to its high nectar production. Its robust nature allows it to thrive in various soil types, making it a versatile addition to any garden.
  • Flowers: The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, showcasing a beautiful purple hue that stands out in any landscape.
  • Height: This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall, with leaves measuring 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide.
  • Growing Conditions: Antelope Horns prefers well-drained soils and full sun, making it ideal for gardens that experience dry conditions. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it a great choice for gardeners looking to conserve water while still supporting local wildlife.
  • Where to Purchase: Available only as seeds online.

Prairie Milkweed (Asclepias Sullivantii)

  • Characteristics: Prairie Milkweed is a resilient plant that thrives in the Midwest’s diverse conditions, featuring clusters of pink flowers that bloom throughout the summer. This species is particularly beneficial for attracting Monarch butterflies and other pollinators, as it provides a vital food source during their life cycle. Its robust nature allows it to adapt to various soil types, making it a versatile addition to any garden.
  • Flowers: The flowers of Prairie Milkweed are typically pink, creating a beautiful contrast against its green foliage and attracting a variety of pollinators.
  • Height: This plant can grow up to 4 feet tall, with leaves measuring 3-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide.
  • Growing Conditions: Prairie Milkweed prefers well-drained soils and full sun, thriving in areas that experience both dry and moist conditions. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to conserve water while supporting local wildlife.
  • Where to Purchase: Available only as seeds online.

Arizona Milkweed (Asclepias Angustifolia)

  • Characteristics: Arizona Milkweed is a drought-tolerant species that thrives in the arid climate, featuring slender leaves and clusters of vibrant yellow flowers that bloom throughout the summer. This variety is particularly beneficial for attracting local pollinators, including Monarch butterflies, due to its high nectar production.
  • Flowers: The flowers are bright yellow, providing a striking contrast against the green foliage and attracting a variety of beneficial insects.
  • Height: This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall, with leaves measuring 1-2 inches wide and 6-12 inches long.
  • Growing Conditions: Arizona Milkweed prefers well-drained sandy or rocky soils and full sun exposure, making it ideal for dry landscapes. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand extreme heat, thriving in the challenging conditions typical of the Southwest.
  • Where to Purchase: Available only as seeds online.

Narrowleaf Milkweed (Asclepias Fascicularis)

  • Characteristics: Narrowleaf Milkweed is a slender plant that adapts well to various soil types, making it a versatile choice for gardeners. Its narrow leaves and clusters of pink flowers provide an attractive addition to any garden while serving as a vital food source for Monarch caterpillars.
  • Flowers: The flowers bloom in late spring to summer, showcasing a beautiful pink hue that stands out in any landscape.
  • Height: This plant can grow up to 4 feet tall, with leaves measuring 2-4 inches long.
  • Growing Conditions: Narrowleaf Milkweed thrives in well-drained soils and full sun, making it suitable for a variety of garden settings.
  • Where to Purchase: Available online as live plants and seeds.

California Milkweed (Asclepias Californica)

  • Characteristics: California Milkweed is a native species that thrives in the coastal regions of California, featuring broad, lance-shaped leaves and clusters of vibrant pink to purple flowers. This variety is particularly important for attracting Monarch butterflies and other pollinators, as it provides a vital food source during their life cycle. Its adaptability to various soil types and ability to tolerate coastal conditions make it a valuable addition to any garden.
  • Flowers: The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer, showcasing a beautiful pink hue that stands out in any landscape and attracts a variety of beneficial insects.
  • Height: This plant can grow up to 4 feet tall, with leaves measuring 3-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide.
  • Growing Conditions: California Milkweed prefers well-drained soils and full sun, making it suitable for a variety of garden settings, especially in coastal areas. It is drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to conserve water while supporting local wildlife.
  • Where to Purchase: Available only as seeds online.

Start From Scratch By Buying Milkweed Seeds

After following our guide and planting your own native milkweed species, you may find these little yellow beads on your Milkweed. These are Monarch butterfly eggs! and once they hatch the caterpillars will begin to eat the Milkweed and eventually turn into a chrysalis!

If you’re interested in starting from scratch, well then buying milkweed seeds is a great option. Growing Milkweed from seeds can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to witness the entire lifecycle of the plant. This article has a sister guide, our Ultimate Guide to Milkweed Cultivation, just in case you need more detailed help growing Milkweed.

Here are some tips to ensure success:

Choose Quality Seeds

Look for seeds labeled as “native” or “local genotype” to ensure they’re suited to your area. This labeling indicates that the seeds are adapted to local conditions, increasing the likelihood of successful growth. Check for reputable sellers with positive reviews, ensuring you’re purchasing from a source that values quality and sustainability. The good news is if you’re purchasing online, we’ve already done the hard work and identified reputable sources for every species talked about. Consider reaching out to local conservation groups for recommendations on where to buy seeds you choose to buy locally.

Prepare for Planting

Milkweed seeds often require cold stratification, a process that mimics winter conditions. This step is crucial for breaking seed dormancy and promoting germination. Place seeds in the refrigerator for about a month before planting to simulate these conditions. This simple preparation can significantly increase your germination rate and lead to a more robust garden.

Planting and Growing

Plant seeds in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight, as milkweed prefers sunny locations. Water regularly until the seedlings are established, then reduce watering to prevent over-saturation. As the plants grow, they will require less frequent watering, as their deep root systems develop and help them access moisture more efficiently.

Buying Live Milkweed Plants

If you prefer a faster start, buying milkweed plants is the way to go. Purchasing established plants can provide instant gratification and help you quickly contribute to local conservation efforts. Here’s how to choose and care for them:

Selecting Healthy Plants

When buying milkweed plants, look for healthy, vibrant foliage and avoid any signs of disease or pests. Healthy plants will have firm, green leaves and a well-developed root system. Avoid plants that appear wilted, have yellowing leaves, or show signs of insect damage. These issues can indicate underlying problems that may affect the plant’s ability to thrive once transplanted.

Planting Tips

  • Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil, as milkweed thrives in areas with plenty of sunlight. The right location will help your plants establish quickly and begin supporting local pollinators.
  • Spacing: Plant milkweed about 18-24 inches apart to allow room for growth and to ensure good air circulation, which can prevent disease.
  • Watering: Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root growth. Deep watering helps the roots grow downwards, making them more resilient during dry periods.

Caring for Your Native Milkweed

If you put in the sweat and work and care while using this article as a resource, You will succeed at providing our endangered Monarch butterfly's a new chance at life! By planting Milkweed and caring for it you can directly impact the Monarch population!

Once you’ve planted your milkweed, caring for it is relatively simple. Proper maintenance will ensure that your milkweed thrives and continues to support local wildlife. This section is only a brief overview, if you need more detailed instructions, visit the perfect complement to this article, our step-by-step guide to growing and cultivating Milkweed

Here are some basic tips to get you started:

Watering

Milkweed prefers to be on the dry side once established. Water deeply once a week during dry spells to provide sufficient moisture without over-watering. This watering approach encourages the plant to develop a deep root system, which enhances its drought tolerance.

Pruning

Trim back dead stems in early spring to encourage new growth. Pruning helps the plant focus its energy on new, healthy growth and can improve the overall appearance of your garden. Deadhead flowers to prevent unwanted spreading and to encourage a tidy garden space.

Pest Management

While milkweed is generally pest-resistant, aphids can be a problem. These small insects can be managed using a gentle spray of water or insecticidal soap. Regular monitoring of your plants will help catch any infestations early, reducing the need for more drastic measures and maintaining the ecological balance in your garden.

You’re Now Actively Supporting Monarch Butterflies!

You’ve made an amazing decision by planting native milkweed, you’re now directly contributing to the conservation of monarch butterflies. These iconic insects face numerous challenges, including habitat loss and climate change. Consider joining local conservation groups or participating in citizen science projects to support these efforts further. Engaging in community initiatives can amplify your impact and connect you with like-minded individuals who share your passion for conservation. If you’re still figuring out how to design your butterfly garden, you can read our article on designing a butterfly garden as a beginner!

Buying native milkweed is a rewarding step toward creating a beautiful butterfly-friendly garden. With this guide, you’re now able to choose the right milkweed for your region and grow it successfully. Enjoy the beauty and ecological benefits of having monarchs and other pollinators visit your garden! Remember, every plant counts in supporting our local ecosystems. By taking these steps, you’re not only enhancing your garden’s aesthetic appeal but also playing a crucial role in preserving biodiversity for future generations. Happy gardening!


Michael Larsen, the owner of Simplybutterflies.org and co-owner of Larsen & Co. A lifelong Butterfly Rancher and IT Administrator!

Michael D. Larsen

Butterfly Rancher & Co-Owner of Larsen & Co.

With over twenty years of experience raising butterflies on my family’s Butterfly Farm, I have spent my entire life around Butterflies. Over the years, I’ve developed a passion for these creatures and want to share the knowledge I have gained thanks to my unique experiences raising butterflies commercially. If I can raise awareness of conservation efforts and butterfly news or spark someone’s interest in nature and butterflies, this website has served its purpose. Conservation starts with awareness and education!

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