Family Asclepiadaceae (ass-kle-pee-ad-AY-see-ee) Genus Asclepias (ass-KLE-pee-us)) Species curassavica (ku-ra-SAV-ik-uh) Synonym Mexican Milkweed, Scarlet Milkweed, Bloodflower,Swallow-Wort
Category Tropicals & Tender Perennials Height 24-48" Spacing 18"-24" Sun Exposure Full Sun Bloom Color Red-Orange, Bright Yellow Bloom Time Mid Summer Foliage Herbaceous - will die back with frost
Hardiness Zone 8a to 10 F Zone 8b to 15 F Zone 9a to 20 F Zone 9b to 25 F
Soil pH Requirements 6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic) 6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
Water Requirements Average water needs
Pruning Instructions Trim to shape or keep from getting leggy
Propagation Methods By dividing rhizomes, tubers, corms or bulbs From seed; direct sow outdoors in fall or winter sow in vented containers, cold-frame or unheated greenhouse From seed; stratify if sowing indoors
Seed Collecting Bag seed-heads to capture ripening seed Allow pods to dry on plant; break open to collect seeds Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored
Other Details Attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds
Freezing Temps by Year: 2009-2010 Year: Freezing temps 12/09 & 01/10 * moderate winter 2010-2011 Year: Freezing temps 01/11 & 02/11 * moderate winter 2011/2012 Year: Freezing temps 12/11 & 01/12 * mild winter 2012/2013 Year: Freezing temps 12/12 & 01/13 *very mild winter
