swamp milkweed
Asclepias incarnata
MBG Plant of Merit 2019
USDA zones3 to 9
SunHandles full sun to partial shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size3 to 4 feet tall18 to 24 inches wide
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- Pink
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) is a perennial for pollinator gardens, rain gardens, meadows, and naturalized areas. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun to part shade and average to wet, loamy or clay soil. Deep pink flower clusters attract butterflies and hummingbirds, and monarch caterpillars feed on the leaves. It is not a favorite of deer or rabbits, though hungry ones will eat almost anything. Aphids often visit, so spray them with soapy water if the plant looks sick.
Pairs well with Joe Pye weed, Pickerel weed, Indian grass, and Royal fern.
Native range
North America.