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Asclepias eriocarpa – Asclepiaceae - ‘Indian Milkweed ,' 'Kotolo,' 'Monarch Milkweed.' - One of the most striking and showiest of California's Milkweed species, uncannily holding its scented waxy balls of flowers aloft in the hottest & driest part of the year. Fuzzy lambs ear-like leaves are also an attractive feature. It attracts all manner of insect life to feed on the nectar, including bees, beetles, butterflies, flies, and ants. This is an excellent way to draw insect life out of the surrounding landscape to study what is out there. It is also a key plant for the Monarch butterfly, who seem to prefer this species above all others.

Indian Milkweed in its native condition is a perfect plant for dry grass in hot interior climates, and can be planted in such conditions by watering it through it's first summer. It also shows adaptability to ordinary garden conditions as long as a summer rest from watering can be provided. It will grow up to 3' - 4' tall, flowering June-August. It is reportedly hardy to at least 5º F, and should be regarded as perfectly drought tolerant.