Desert Milkweed (Asclepias subulata)
The striking unique beauty of the desert milkweed is one of our absolute favorites to include in our native Sonoran Desert permascapes. Milkweeds are a primary source of nectar and egg laying for the Monarch and Queen butterflies.
Mature Size
2–4 ft wide, 3–5 ft tall
Growth Rate
Moderate — up to 1–2 ft per year with regular deep watering
Water Requirements (Minimum vs. Maximum Growth)
Minimum: Very low — thrives on rainfall in natural desert conditions
For Fast Growth: Biweekly watering during hot seasons encourages fuller growth and more blooms
Ecological & Functional Benefits
Monarch and Queen butterfly host plant — plant 10 of these and you can register as a way station
Extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance
Upright, architectural form adds strong visual interest
Supports native pollinators year-round with minimal inputs
Edible / Harvest Season / Nutritional Benefits
Not edible — sap is toxic if ingested and may cause skin irritation
Minimum Chill Hours
None — fully adapted to low desert with no chill requirement
Maintenance Requirements
Very low — occasional pruning to maintain tidy form or remove dead stems
Can be left completely wild or shaped for a modern, minimalist look
Thorny or Not?
No
Deciduous or Not?
Evergreen to semi-deciduous — may drop stems in drought or cold, but rebounds quickly
Root System
Deep, non-invasive taproot
Safe to plant near walkways, raised beds, driveways, and retaining walls
Excellent for tight spaces or slope stabilization
Avoid disturbing root zone once established — doesn’t transplant well
Miscellaneous Notes
A true desert native — thrives in full sun and extreme heat
Pale yellow flowers bloom spring through fall
Combine with boulders, native grasses, or dry streambeds for stunning visual contrast
Can be spaced closely in rows or clusters to mimic hedge-like massing, despite its small size
Questions about the Desert Milkweed?
Comment below or on our social media pages @permascaping.
