Asclepias — 14 species

Asclepias, the milkweeds, are North American prairie and meadow perennials beloved for their nectar-rich flower clusters that sustain monarch butterflies — Common Milkweed, Prairie Milkweed, and Spider Milkweed among the most familiar. They perform best in full sun and tolerate moderate to dry soil once established, needing little supplemental watering. All Asclepias species are toxic to cats and dogs: the milky sap contains cardiac glycosides (cardenolides) that can cause vomiting, weakness, rapid heart rate, and in severe cases seizures or death. Plant in pollinator beds away from pets.