Blood Flower

Plant Type: perennial
Plant Height: 2–3 feet
Spread: 1–2 feet
Flower Color: red, orange, and yellow
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Blood Flower (Asclepias curassavica): Monarch Magnet with Striking Tropical Blooms

Blood Flower is a vibrant, tropical milkweed species celebrated for its clusters of fiery red, orange, and yellow flowers. Known for attracting butterflies—especially Monarchs—it serves as both a nectar source and a host plant for caterpillars, making it an essential addition to pollinator-friendly gardens in warm climates.

Key Features of Blood Flower

• Vivid Tri-Color Blooms: Produces showy, long-lasting flowers from late spring through fall, with multiple colors on each cluster.
• Pollinator Haven: One of the best nectar plants for Monarchs, Queens, and other butterflies; also supports their larval stage.
• Extended Bloom Season: In Arizona’s warm climate, flowers can appear nearly year-round.
• Easy to Grow: Thrives in heat and sun with minimal care once established.

Growing and Care Tips

Blood Flower is a tropical perennial in warm zones and can be grown as an annual in colder regions.

Soil: Prefers well-draining soil; tolerates sandy and rocky conditions.
Water: Water regularly during establishment. Once mature, water deeply every 7–10 days in summer.
Fertilizer: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring for best blooming.
Pruning: Trim lightly to maintain shape and encourage fresh blooms; remove seed pods if you want to limit reseeding.

Landscaping Uses

• Pollinator Gardens: A must-have for attracting Monarch butterflies and other pollinators.
• Borders and Edges: Adds bold color to sunny garden beds and borders.
• Mixed Flower Beds: Combines well with lantana, salvia, and other sun-loving flowers.
• Educational Gardens: Perfect for butterfly waystations and schoolyard pollinator projects.

Summary

Blood Flower is a showy, heat-loving perennial that adds both beauty and purpose to the garden. With its vivid blooms and vital role in the butterfly lifecycle, it’s a standout for Arizona landscapes seeking color, wildlife, and easy maintenance.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Blood Flower

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for maximum flowering and butterfly activity.
Soil: Well-drained soil; amend clay soils with sand or compost for better drainage.
Spacing: Space 1–2 feet apart for natural clumping and air circulation.
Planting Depth: Plant root crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not needed—plants have strong, upright stems.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water deeply immediately after planting to settle roots.
• Frequency: Water every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Apply about 1 inch of water per session.

When is the Plant Established?

• Established after 2–3 months, once consistent new growth is visible.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7–10 days; increase frequency during extreme heat above 105°F.
• Winter: Water every 3–4 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1 emitter 8–12 inches from base to ensure deep root watering.
Flow Rate: Use a 1-gallon-per-hour emitter.
Number of Emitters: 1 per plant; add a second for mature clusters.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase watering during prolonged heat waves; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Blood Flower:

• Soil Check: Water when top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
• Avoid Overwatering: Consistently soggy soil can cause root rot.
• Mulch: Use a light mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it away from the plant’s crown.