Bloodflower (Asclepias curassavica)

Also known as: Mexican butterfly weed, Cotton bush

If you want to attract butterflies to your garden or yard, consider planting the butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii). This plant is renowned for its ability to draw in butterflies with its vibrant, nectar-rich flowers that bloom in various colors like purple, pink, and white throughout the summer and fall.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Bloodflower

Lifespan

Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

30 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 cm to 1.5 cm

Flower Color

Red Orange Yellow

Images of Bloodflower

Quickly Identify Bloodflower

Yellow-green lance-shaped leaves, 6 inches (15 cm) long.

Showy clusters of red and yellow flowers, 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) long.

Distinctive spindle-shaped seedpods, 3 inches (7.5 cm) long.

Brilliant orange-red petals with yellow centers, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) across.

Dry, spindle-shaped pods, 2-6 inches (5-15 cm) with brown, winged seeds.

Scientific Classification of Bloodflower

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Gentians, dogbanes, madders, and allies

Family

Dogbane

Genus

Milkweeds

Species

Bloodflower

Planting and Growing of Bloodflower

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Bloodflower?

The watering amount for Asclepias curassavica should generally be about 250 ml per watering session. It prefers moderately moist soil but not waterlogged conditions. Water until the soil feels evenly moist to the touch but ensure excess water drains out to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Bloodflower? ›

What should I do if my Bloodflower is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Bloodflower? ›

How to save an overwatered Bloodflower? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Bloodflower?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Asclepias curassavica benefits from full sun exposure as it ensures better flowering and robust foliage. Providing around 6-8 hours of sunlight daily helps maintain its health and supports wildlife, like monarchs, that depend on it.

What is the best location for Asclepias curassavica? ›

How to ensure adequate sunlight indoors? ›

What are the benefits of ideal sunlight exposure? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Bloodflower?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 85℉

The ideal temperature range for Asclepias curassavica, also known as tropical milkweed, is between 65°F to 85°F. In this temperature band, the plant can grow and flourish optimally, with an increased likelihood of producing vibrant flowers. Temperatures within this range support photosynthesis, ensuring the plant has enough energy for growth and reproduction. Maintaining these conditions can help avoid stress on the plant, which might otherwise result in stunted growth or reduced flowering.

What Soil is Best for Bloodflower?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Asclepias curassavica thrives in well-drained soil to prevent root rot. A well-drained environment ensures that the soil does not retain excess water, promoting healthier root systems and reducing the risk of fungal infections. This plant benefits significantly from nutrient-rich soil, which supports vigorous growth and vibrant blooms. A rich soil environment provides essential nutrients that aid in the overall health and flowering potential of the plant. While needing well-drained soil, Asclepias curassavica also requires soil that retains sufficient moisture to support sustained growth. Balancing moisture retention with drainage is key to maintaining optimal health and promoting lush foliage.

How to Fertilize Bloodflower?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Asclepias curassavica, it's important to use balanced fertilizers with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10. Apply liquid fertilizer at half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilizing. The plant's roots and soil microorganisms can utilize nutrients effectively when applied modestly.

How to Prune Bloodflower?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Start by identifying any dead or damaged stems and foliage. Carefully cut these back right to the main stem or just above a healthy leaf node. When trimming for shape and size, snip just above a leaf node to encourage lateral growth. Ensure your tools are sharp and clean to make precise cuts and reduce the risk of infection. To encourage the plant to grow bushier with more vibrant blooms, focus on apical pruning. Pinch or cut off the top of growth stems regularly. This practice stops the plant from growing too tall and encourages lateral branch development, resulting in a fuller appearance. Deadheading, the process of removing spent flowers, encourages the plant to produce more blooms. Use clean shears to snip off the old flowers just above the first set of healthy leaves. Regular deadheading can prolong the blooming season and keeps the plant looking tidy.

How to Propagate Bloodflower plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring,Summer

Gather seeds from mature Asclepias curassavica pods once they start to split open. Ensure they are fully matured for higher germination rates. Store them in a cool, dry place until ready to plant.

Select healthy, disease-free stems to make cuttings. Each cutting should be about 6 inches long to ensure enough stem for rooting, and remove any leaves from the lower half to prevent rot.

Plant seeds in a tray filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix. Lightly cover them with soil and keep the soil consistently moist in a warm environment until germination, which usually occurs in 14-28 days.

How to Repot Bloodflower plant?

Repotting frequency: Once every two years

Asclepias curassavica should be repotted when it shows signs of outgrowing its current container, such as roots emerging from drainage holes or slowed growth. Spring or summer is ideal as the plant is actively growing, ensuring better recovery from transplant shock.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one to provide enough room for growth. Ensure it has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating, as this plant prefers well-drained conditions. A slightly larger pot helps the roots develop without overwhelming the plant.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter to ensure proper aeration and nutrient availability. Such soil will prevent root rot and support healthy root development, crucial for the plant's growth and blooming potential.

Toxicity of Bloodflower

Is Bloodflower toxic to humans?

Bloodflowers possess a moderate level of toxicity for humans. Every part of the bloodflower plant, similar to all varieties in the Milkweed family, contains dangerous cardiac glycosides. When consumed, these glycosides may lead to symptoms such as vomiting, confusion, fatigue, and muscle cramps. Incidents of bloodflower poisoning in humans are quite rare, as there are no edible look-alikes, despite the plants' widespread presence. Their appeal to butterflies has made them a popular choice in parks and gardens throughout North America. The primary risk lies with inquisitive children, who should be kept from tasting these plants.

Is Bloodflower toxic to cat?

Asclepias curassavica, often referred to as bloodflower, presents a moderate risk of toxicity for cats. If any component of bloodflower is ingested, felines may be susceptible to poisoning. It is important for owners to recognize that every part of bloodflower, including its leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds, is toxic to cats. Cats that consume parts of the bloodflower may show signs of physical distress or illness. If ingestion is suspected, it is vital for cat owners to seek immediate medical attention at a veterinary clinic to ensure their pet has the best opportunity for a complete recovery.

Is Bloodflower toxic to dog?

Bloodflower presents a moderate toxicity hazard for dogs. When any part of this plant is ingested by dogs, they are at risk of poisoning due to its toxic characteristics. The entire plant, encompassing leaves, stems, flowers, and seeds, is detrimental if consumed by canines. Signs of poisoning in dogs may manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe situations, seizures or respiratory distress. It is essential for dog owners to remain alert and prevent their pets from gaining access to bloodflower. If a dog does consume this plant, it is vital to seek prompt veterinary assistance to secure the best possible outcome for the affected animal.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.