Narrow‑leaf milkweed is smaller in stature and blooms later than showy milkweed; it also tolerates very dry conditions. It would work well in a rock garden or xeriscape. Showy milkweed tolerates wet soils better, and has large, unusual, showy flower globes of pink‑tinged, star‑shaped flowers. The nectar‑filled flowers, opening mid‑summer, exude a pleasing sweet fragrance and produce magnificent seed pods on 2'‑3' stems.
