Swamp Milkweed

Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) is a showy native perennial that is vital to monarch butterfly survival, providing both host foliage and nectar. Growing 2 to 4 feet tall, it forms clumps of small mauve flowers and, unlike some milkweeds, is well-behaved and not invasive.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Asclepias incarnata
• Type: native perennial, open-pollinated
• Non-GMO
• Height: 2 to 4 feet
• Flowers: mauve, nectar-rich
• Hardiness: Zones 4 to 8
• Sun: full sun

Best for

• Monarch butterfly host and nectar plant
• Pollinator and native gardens
• Rain gardens and moist sites
• Perennial borders
• Wildlife habitat plantings

How to grow

Sow seeds in fall or cold-stratify them before spring sowing, planting shallowly in full sun. Swamp milkweed tolerates moist soils well and returns each year in Zones 4 to 8. Leave stems standing to support overwintering pollinators.

About MIgardener

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