Asclepias incarnata (swamp milkweed)

Swamp milkweed is a tall, showy coastal native whose leaves are food for monarch caterpillars, while flowers attract the adult butterflies. It reaches 4' tall in full sun. Loves moist to wet soils; it is one of the few ornamentals that thrives in mucky clay soils. Pink flowers bloom in July and August in large fragrant heads composed of small intricate flowers. Elongated, tan-brown seed pods split open in late summer through late fall, releasing seeds attached to silky hairs, which act as parachutes that carry the seeds in wind currents. Good for sunny borders, raingardens, stream and pond banks, moist meadows, and butterfly gardens. Note: Toxic if consumed in large quantities. 

Swamp milkwood is native to North America. It is typically found growing wild near the edges of ponds, lakes, streams, and low areas––or along ditches. It has specialized roots that can function in heavy, wet soils. It is one of the best attractors of the monarch butterfly, which feeds on the flowers and lays eggs on the plants. The emerging caterpillars feed on the leaves. Plant in large groups to attract passersby.

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)  

Photo by Kathy Thornton

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