Sow indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost to transplant into the ground when the soil has warmed and all threat of frost is past. Barely cover the seed, as light aids germination. Seeds should germinate in 1-3 weeks. Plants can also be propagated from stem or leaf cuttings.

Perennial in Zones 9–11. Also known as hairy balls, swan plant, swan milkweed, and balloon plant.


Balloon plant milkweed isn't particularly showy, but butterflies love the nectar-rich blooms. In fact, the plant is definitely one of the best plants for attracting monarch butterflies. ... Native to southern Africa, this milkweed species is suitable for growing in USDA plant hardiness zones 8 through 10.

Use a sharp pruner to take milkweed cuttings at a 45° angle for optimal water absorption. Take small cuttings (at least 3 sets of leaves) to midsize cuttings (up to 2 feet) cuttings. The cutting size you use will depend on milkweed availability, cage size, and caterpillar size.. . . . .364011234447!]0000000000000009783314144611!]