Swamp Milkweed
Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), also known as Marsh Milkweed, is one of the easiest and most garden-friendly milkweeds to grow. Unlike Common Milkweed, it does not aggressively spread, making it a great choice for pollinator gardens, meadows, and rain gardens.
This species acts as a top-tier host plant for monarch butterflies, as its leaves serve as food for caterpillars while its fragrant, deep pink flowers attract adult monarchs, bees, and other pollinators throughout midsummer. Thriving in average to wet soils, Swamp Milkweed is ideal for rain gardens, pond edges, or any sunny location where consistent moisture is available.
Why Choose Swamp Milkweed?
- Essential for monarch caterpillars – One of the best milkweeds for egg-laying.
- Attracts pollinators – Loved by butterflies, bees & beneficial insects.
- Non-spreading & easy to grow – A well-behaved milkweed for gardens.
Plant Swamp Milkweed in full sun and moist soil to create a stunning, low-maintenance habitat that supports butterflies and other vital pollinators!
- Towards the end of summer, milkweeds may get oleander aphids, small yellow insects which cover stems and flowers. They will not harm the plant and can be left alone or removed by hand.
- Similarly, bright orange Large Milkweed Bugs (Oncopeltus fasciatus) may visit and feed on your plants. This will not harm the plant.
- Milkweed seed pods can be easily collected, saved, and shared to propagate this powerful pollinator plant.
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