Butterflies are a delight to have in your garden, and one of the best ways to attract them is to plant narrowleaf milkweed. Narrowleaf milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis) is a perennial plant native to the western United States and is a favorite of butterflies. It is easy to grow and is drought tolerant, making it an ideal choice for a butterfly garden.
Narrowleaf milkweed is a low-growing plant with a clumping habit. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves and produces clusters of small, purple-pink flowers in late summer. The flowers are a favorite nectar source for butterflies, and the plant is also a host plant for the Monarch butterfly. The caterpillars feed on the foliage of the plant.
Narrowleaf milkweed is easy to grow in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is not picky about soil type and will grow in sandy or clay soils. It is drought tolerant and does not require much water once established. It will spread over time and can be divided in the spring or fall.
To attract butterflies to your garden, plant narrowleaf milkweed in a sunny spot. Plant it in masses for the best effect. You can purchase narrowleaf milkweed plants from HH Plant Nursery for just $19.99. The plants are 2-3 feet tall and come in a 4-inch pot.
Narrowleaf milkweed is a great addition to any butterfly garden. It is easy to grow and provides food for both butterflies and their caterpillars. With its beautiful purple-pink flowers, it is sure to be a showstopper in your garden.
