A taller, clump-forming milkweed species with slender, lance-shaped leaves and somewhat open habit. Rose-pink flowers form at stem tips in summer. Flowers are fragrant and a primary food source for butterflies and other pollinators. Host plant for the monarch butterfly.
Taller, clump-forming plant with fragrant flowers. Open and spreading habit, which may benefit from some support. Tolerates a wide range of soils, including poorly drained areas. Works well alone in a mixed planting or as clumps among other natives.
Care and Maintenance
Prefers full sun. May flop over in late summer, especially in partially shaded sites. Tolerates well drained soils but intolerant of overly dry sites. Prefers soils with high organic matter.
Pest and Diseases
Oleander aphids are often found in large numbers on the stems. Milkweed beetles and bugs can be present in late summer. Mammals avoid foliage due to toxic milky sap.
Establishment and Propagation
Plant as a plug or start from seed after cold, moist stratification for 30 days.
Commercial Availability
Commonly available
Alternative Plant Selections
Common Milkweed, Sullivant's Milkweed, Purple Milkweed
Native Status
Illinois native statewide
Fall Color
Leaves can turn red in the fall
Growth habit
Herbaceous plant that often forms colonies from rhizomes
Number of Caterpillars that Use this as a Host Plant
