Tropical Milkweed: Impact on Monarch Butter flies

Tropical milkweed can pose a threat to monarch butterflies by increasing the spread of the Ophryocystis elektroscirrh (OE) parasite and potentially disrupting their migration patterns. Unlike native milkweed species, tropical

milkweed does not die back in winter. While it serves as a food source, the

prolonged blooming period allows OE spores to accumulate, resulting in

decreased survival and reproductive rates for monarchs.

To support these beautiful butterflies, it is advisable

to remove tropical milkweed and replace it with native

milkweed species.

News Flash...Florida has officially classified Asclepaus curassavica (tropical milkweed)

as an invasive species. If you have this plant in your yard, it is advisable to remove it .