Asclepias viridis, commonly known as Green Milkweed or Spider Milkweed, is a native perennial wildflower found in prairies, open fields, roadsides, and glades throughout parts of Illinois, especially in the southern portion of the state. It thrives in full sun and prefers dry to medium, well-drained soils, making it well-suited to upland prairies and open grasslands.
This milkweed typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall and is recognized by its broad, wavy-edged leaves and clusters of unusual green flowers with purple highlights, which bloom in late spring to early summer. Like other milkweeds, it serves as a host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars and provides nectar for a wide variety of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Asclepias viridis is a valuable milkweed species that offers early-season blooms, ecological importance, and wildlife support. It is less commonly planted than other milkweeds but plays an essential role in Monarch conservation and adds unique beauty to prairie restorations, native gardens, and naturalized plantings.
Asclepias viridis, commonly known as Green Milkweed or Spider Milkweed, is a native perennial wildflower found in prairies, open fields, roadsides, and glades throughout parts of Illinois, especially in the southern portion of the state. It thrives in full sun and prefers dry to medium, well-drained soils, making it well-suited to upland prairies and open grasslands.
This milkweed typically grows 1 to 2 feet tall and is recognized by its broad, wavy-edged leaves and clusters of unusual green flowers with purple highlights, which bloom in late spring to early summer. Like other milkweeds, it serves as a host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars and provides nectar for a wide variety of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Asclepias viridis is a valuable milkweed species that offers early-season blooms, ecological importance, and wildlife support. It is less commonly planted than other milkweeds but plays an essential role in Monarch conservation and adds unique beauty to prairie restorations, native gardens, and naturalized plantings.
Bloom: late spring to early summer
Habitats: glades; open fields; prairies; roadsides
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic to dry
Plant type (height): forb (1 to 2 feet)
Requirements: full sun
Soil: calcareous; gravelly; rocky material; sand
