Asclepias fulva, commonly known as Red Milkweed or Hairy Milkweed, is a perennial herb native to Southern Africa. It thrives in a variety of wetland habitats, including wet meadows, marsh edges, and stream shores. This species typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1.5-2.5 feet (0.46-0.8 meters) and a width of 1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.5 meters). Its most striking feature is the clusters of orange or red flowers that bloom in the summer, which are highly attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. The plant’s foliage is also a crucial food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars.

Red Milkweed is valued for its showy flowers and its role in supporting pollinator populations, particularly monarch butterflies. It is used in native plant gardens, rain gardens, and as part of pollinator-friendly landscaping. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and grows best in medium to wet, well-drained soils, such as clay or loam. While it is not overly demanding in terms of maintenance, it is important to avoid dry conditions as this can stress the plant. Red Milkweed can spread by rhizomes, so it may require management to keep it contained within a designated area.CC BY-SA 4.0