Poke Milkweed
Asclepias exaltata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Poke 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
part shade
Water
medium
Size
36"–72" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, CT, DE, GA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, wasps
Poke milkweed is a tall native perennial that thrives in partial shade with distinctive clusters of small white to pale pink flowers. This milkweed species naturally grows in woodland edges and can reach up to 6 feet tall, making it an excellent choice for adding height to shaded garden areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Poke Milkweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very tall growth can appear unmanaged
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare stems
- May spread and look weedy to conservative neighbors
Wildlife value
Host plant for monarch butterfly, milkweed tussock moth.
Essential host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars and provides nectar for various bees, butterflies, and beneficial wasps. The flowers are particularly attractive to native pollinators during the summer blooming period.
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 Poke Milkweed and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.