Dwarf Milkweed
Asclepias pumila
Last reviewed: June 2026
Dwarf 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
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CO, KS, MT, ND and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Dwarf milkweed is a compact native perennial that stays under a foot tall with small greenish-white flower clusters in summer. This low-growing plant forms neat clumps and goes dormant in winter, disappearing completely until spring regrowth.
In an HOA neighborhood
Dwarf Milkweed is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Completely dormant in winter with no above-ground presence
Wildlife value
Host plant for monarch butterfly.
Essential host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars and provides nectar for various bees, butterflies, and beetles. Despite its small size, it plays an important role in supporting pollinator populations.
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 Dwarf Milkweed and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.