Asclepias californica

California Milkweed A California Native milkweed that is the host of monarch butterflies throughout its entire life.  The leaves are thick and woolly.  The flowers are a dark pink.  This milkweed can reach a height of up to three feet tall and wide.   The Kawaiisu tribes of California ate California Milkweed as candy, when cooked, the milky sap is flavorful and chewy. Plant with: Madrone (Arbutus menziesii), Pines (Pinus sp.), Junipers (Juniperus sp.), Manzanita (Arctostaphylos sp.), Ceanothus sp., Oaks (Quercus sp.), and Coyote Brush (Baccharis sp.). Also include other butterfly-attracting herbs such as members of the Asteraceae family, other Milkweeds (Asclepias fascicularis or speciosa), thistles (Cirsium sp.), Buckwheat (Eriogonum sp.), Mint (Monardella sp.), and Sage (Salvia sp.) - Best in full sun - Water well for the first month - Attracts birds and butterflies - Drought tolerant - Hardy up to 5 degrees - Toxic - California Native