Tropical Milkweed Watch List
Why Tropical Milkweed Is Now on Florida’s Watch List
Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) has officially been added to Florida’s Invasive Plant Watch List -as of June 2025- by the Florida Invasive Species Council. While not fully classified as invasive yet, this move signals urgent concerns for pollinator health and ecosystem balance.
The Problem
Tropical milkweed remains green year-round, unlike native milkweeds that go dormant. This disrupts monarch butterflies’ natural migration and encourages the spread of the harmful OE (Ophryocystis elektroscirrha) parasite. Infected monarchs may have deformed wings, reduced lifespan, and weakened migration ability, making them more vulnerable to predators and environmental stress.
In contrast, monarchs raised on native milkweed have stronger wings, healthier bodies, and maintain their natural migratory patterns, helping sustain robust wild populations.
Tropical milkweed also seeds aggressively and has begun moving into wild habitats, threatening native plant communities.
Florida-Native Milkweed Alternatives
Florida offers beautiful native milkweed species that support monarchs naturally. These recommendations are based on available research and observations, but we encourage gardeners to consider site-specific conditions and consult local experts when selecting plants.
- Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) — Thrives in moist areas, blooms pink to mauve.
- Aquatic Milkweed (Asclepias perennis) — Excellent for wet or partly shaded gardens.
- Butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa) — Vibrant orange blooms, prefers sunny, well-drained spots.
- Fewflower Milkweed (Asclepias lanceolata) — Striking reddish-orange blooms, great for damp soils.
Tips to Transition from Tropical Milkweed
If you already have tropical milkweed in your garden:
- Cut it back not later than in the fall to prevent continuous flowering and reduce parasite risk.
- Gradually replace with native milkweed species over time.
- Avoid letting it go to seed or spread into natural areas.
Regional Planting Guidance
Different Florida regions have varying soil and climate conditions:
- North Florida — Use swamp or butterflyweed in areas with good drainage.
- Central Florida — Most native milkweeds thrive, especially aquatic milkweed in wetter spots.
- South Florida — Favor aquatic and swamp milkweed to handle heat and humidity.
Get Involved
- Join your local Florida Native Plant Society (FNPS) chapter.
- Check the Florida Association of Native Nurseries (FANN) for native plant sources.
- Follow UF/IFAS for science-backed gardening advice.
- Connect with the Florida Wildflower Foundation for additional resources and support.
- Attend local workshops or become a citizen scientist monitoring monarch health.
