Redring milkweed (Asclepias variegata)

Also known as: Redwing Milkweed, White milkweed

Redring milkweed (Asclepias variegata) is a perennial plant native to the eastern U.S., typically reaching heights of up to 3 feet. It produces clusters of white flowers accented by red or purple rings at the base, blooming from late spring to early summer. The leaves are broad, oval, and opposite, and produce a milky latex if broken. This species thrives in well-drained soils with partial shade to full sun and is commonly found in open woods and along forest edges. Redring milkweed is highly attractive to various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and wasps. For best visual impact, consider planting in groups.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Redring milkweed

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

90 cm

Spread

1.2 m

Leaf Color

Green Purple Lavender

Flower Size

Up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm)

Flower Color

White Pink Purple

Images of Redring milkweed

Quickly Identify Redring milkweed

Upright perennial, 2-4 feet (60-120 cm) tall

Bicolored white flowers with pink-purple centers

Pods erect, brown-reddish, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long

Oval leaves, 2-6 inches (5-15 cm), dark green upper side

Slender stem, purple-green, exudes milky sap

Scientific Classification of Redring milkweed

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Gentianales

Family

Dogbane

Genus

Milkweeds

Species

Redring milkweed

Planting and Growing of Redring milkweed

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

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 Redring milkweed?

For Asclepias variegata, water should be provided carefully to ensure the soil stays moist but is never waterlogged. Aim for around 200 ml of water every time you water the plant. Ensure the water thoroughly moistens the root zone without leaving the soil soggy, which could risk root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Redring milkweed? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Redring milkweed? ›

How to save an overwatered Redring milkweed? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Redring milkweed?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Partial shade to full sun exposure enhances Asclepias variegata’s flowering potential and health. Consistent optimal light maintains strong stems and abundant blooms, which contribute to the plant's robustness against environmental stresses.

How much sun is ideal for Asclepias variegata? ›

What is a practical solution for achieving ideal sunlight? ›

What benefits come from providing ideal light? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Redring milkweed?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Asclepias variegata, commonly known as the White Milkweed, is between 65°F and 75°F. This range ensures optimal growth, flowering, and development of the plant. The temperature should be kept consistent within this range to promote healthy leaf and root systems, facilitating the plant's ability to support pollinators and contribute to the local ecosystem.

What Soil is Best for Redring milkweed?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Asclepias variegata thrives in well-drained soil because it prevents waterlogging that can lead to root rot. Ensuring good drainage will give the roots enough access to air and nutrients, promoting healthy growth. This plant does well in moderately fertile soil. It doesn't require overly rich nutrients, which means gardeners can focus on maintaining natural soil compositions. This balance supports its growth without causing excessive leafiness that could inhibit flowering. A neutral pH range from 6.5 to 7.5 allows Asclepias variegata to access essential nutrients efficiently. Proper pH levels ensure that micronutrients remain available, preventing deficiencies that can stunt plant growth and affect its health.

How to Fertilize Redring milkweed?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Asclepias variegata, use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. This prevents the plant from becoming overwhelmed by nutrients, providing just enough to support its growth. Over-fertilizing can lead to poor health, so moderation is key.

How to Prune Redring milkweed?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

It's important to time your pruning correctly. Prune Asclepias variegata in early spring or immediately after blooming. This prevents stress on the plant and ensures that you do not accidentally remove future buds. Early pruning helps invigorate the plant for a strong growing season ahead. Ensure that you have sharp, clean pruning shears to make precise cuts. Clean shears prevent the spread of disease and help make clean cuts that promote quicker healing. Dull or dirty tools can cause ragged cuts, leaving the plant vulnerable to pathogens.

How to Propagate Redring milkweed plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Late spring

Begin seed propagation by collecting Asclepias variegata seeds from mature pods. Clean the seeds and prepare a well-draining soil mix. Place the seeds on the surface and lightly cover them with soil.

For cutting propagation, select healthy stems in late spring. Trim a section of the stem just below a node using a sterile knife. Remove most of the lower leaves to reduce moisture loss.

For root cutting propagation, carefully dig around the plant to expose the roots. Cut sections from the parent root with sterile tools. Make sure each section has some small roots or buds.

How to Repot Redring milkweed plant?

Repotting frequency: Biennially

Asclepias variegata should be repotted when you notice roots overcrowding the pot, visible through drainage holes, or when growth appears stunted. The best time to repot is during Spring when the plant is beginning its active growth period, ensuring minimal stress and optimal recovery.

Select a pot one size larger than the current one, with ample drainage holes. This provides space for root growth, preventing waterlogging and promoting healthy development. A pot too large can hold excess moisture, potentially leading to root rot—balance is key.

Opt for a well-draining, loamy soil that mimics the plant's natural habitat. This soil type retains necessary moisture while allowing excess water to escape, preventing root suffocation and rot. Adding perlite or sand enhances drainage and aeration.

Toxicity of Redring milkweed

Is Redring milkweed toxic to humans?

Contact with the sap of the redring milkweed poses a significant poisoning risk. Urgent attention is necessary if the sap enters the eyes, with potential fatality from consuming large amounts. The toxic element of this plant is the sap, primarily located in its leaves and stems. Initial symptoms manifest as skin irritation. When the sap contacts the eyes, it can lead to corneal endothelial toxicity. Affected individuals may experience blurred vision, heightened sensitivity to light, and severe pain. Notably, symptoms may not appear immediately. If large quantities are ingested, symptoms may include abdominal bloating, dilated pupils, elevated fever, difficulty breathing, and muscle spasms. Due to its popularity as a garden plant, there is a risk of contact, making children and gardeners particularly vulnerable.

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.

More About Toxic Techniques→