Zizotes Milkweed
Asclepias oenotheroides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Asclepias oenotheroides (Zizotes Milkweed) is a drought-tolerant native forb found across the southwestern United States from Arizona to Texas. This white-flowered milkweed blooms from March through August and attracts butterflies and bees.
Zizotes Milkweed is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (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"–36" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CO, LA, NM and 2 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Zizotes Milkweed is a low-growing native perennial that produces small white or greenish-white flowers from spring through summer. This drought-tolerant plant forms a compact mound and goes dormant in winter, making it well-suited for water-wise gardens.
Growing Zizotes Milkweed
Grow Zizotes Milkweed in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Zizotes Milkweed is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
Essential host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars and provides nectar for various butterflies and bees. The flowers attract pollinators throughout the extended blooming season.
Common questions
- When does Zizotes Milkweed bloom?
- Asclepias oenotheroides typically blooms from March through August, providing nectar for pollinators throughout the growing season.
- What pollinators visit Zizotes Milkweed?
- This milkweed species attracts both butterflies and bees, making it valuable for supporting native pollinator populations.
- Where is Asclepias oenotheroides native?
- Zizotes Milkweed is native to Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, thriving in arid and semi-arid regions.
- What growing conditions does Zizotes Milkweed prefer?
- This drought-tolerant forb grows best in full sun with low water requirements, making it ideal for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
- Is Zizotes Milkweed toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Zizotes 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 Zizotes Milkweed toxic to cats?
- Yes. Zizotes 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 Zizotes Milkweed HOA-friendly?
- Zizotes Milkweed is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low 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 Zizotes Milkweed and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.