Getting to Know Cut Flowers: Asclepias

Asclepias, also known as Railroad Annie, is a cut garden flower most often used as a filler. It belongs to the Milkweed family.  It is named after the Greek God Asklepios - the God of Medicine - because of its folk- medicinal properties.  I've used it in it's most common form - mixed light and dark orange, but I've also seen it in pinks. It lasts from 3-7 days and is available all year around with it's peak season being June through September - why I call it a garden flower.  I think it's perfect for Summer and Fall arrangements.  It's a good idea to singe the bottom of the asclepias flower stem to stop the flow of the milky substance.  Messy - but definitely worth it!

Flower arrangements are designs by Whimsical Welcomes Floral Design using asclepias.  Please let me know if you have any questions.