California Milkweed
Asclepias californica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Asclepias californica is a California native milkweed that blooms white flowers from April through July. This drought-tolerant perennial attracts butterflies, bees, and moths while supporting monarch butterfly reproduction.
California Milkweed is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-06-03). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 18"–36" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
California milkweed is a drought-tolerant perennial that produces clusters of pink to white flowers from spring through summer. This compact native grows in a bushy form and goes dormant in winter, dying back to the ground before returning in spring.
Growing California Milkweed
Grow California Milkweed in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 18 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Milkweed is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Sprawling, woolly gray habit can read as weedy
- Goes dormant in summer heat and winter
Wildlife value
Host plant for monarch butterfly, queen butterfly.
Essential host plant for monarch butterflies and attracts a wide variety of native bees and moths. The flowers provide crucial nectar sources during the growing season.
Common questions
- When does California Milkweed bloom?
- Asclepias californica typically blooms from April through July, producing clusters of small white to cream-colored flowers.
- What pollinators visit California Milkweed?
- California Milkweed attracts butterflies including monarchs, various native bees, and moths. It serves as both a nectar source and host plant for monarch butterfly larvae.
- Where is Asclepias californica native?
- California Milkweed is native to California, primarily found in chaparral and woodland areas throughout much of the state.
- How much water does California Milkweed need?
- Asclepias californica is drought-tolerant once established and thrives with low to moderate water. It naturally goes dormant during dry summer months.
- Is California Milkweed toxic to dogs?
- Yes. California Milkweed is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is California Milkweed toxic to cats?
- Yes. California Milkweed is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is California Milkweed HOA-friendly?
- California Milkweed is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like California Milkweed and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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