Desert Milkweed
Asclepias erosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Desert Milkweed is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). 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 × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, NV, UT
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Desert milkweed is a hardy perennial that produces clusters of small, creamy white to pale pink flowers from spring through summer. This native plant goes dormant in winter, losing its leaves but returning reliably each year with minimal water requirements.
In an HOA neighborhood
Desert 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.
- Can look weedy when dormant in winter
- May self-seed and spread beyond intended areas
- Stems can appear scraggly between bloom periods
Wildlife value
Host plant for monarch butterfly, queen butterfly.
Essential host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars and provides nectar for various butterflies, bees, and moths. Supports monarch butterfly migration.
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 Desert Milkweed and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.