Asclepias incarnata pulchra (Eastern Swamp Milkweed)

A bushier, more compact alternative to standard swamp milkweed, this eastern subspecies brings the same wetland utility and Monarch host-plant value in a shorter, denser form better suited to smaller rain garden footprints.

Species Overview

Asclepias incarnata ssp. pulchra is a subspecies of the more widespread Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed), distinguished by broader, more ovoid leaves, pubescent stems and leaves, and a shorter, bushier habit than the western subspecies. It reaches 2 to 4 feet in height and produces vibrant rose-purple flowers a little later in the summer than the species type. Hummingbirds are drawn to this plant, which also serves as a host plant for monarch and queen butterfly larvae.

Application

• Wetland and rain garden restoration - thrives in consistently wet to medium-moisture soils
• Stormwater basin and pond-edge plantings
• Pollinator habitat and Monarch waystation projects - larval host for Monarch and Queen butterflies
• Compact-footprint rain gardens where standard swamp milkweed's taller, looser habit is less desirable

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Wet, moist soils; tolerant of clay; naturally found along ponds, streams, swamps, and bogs, but adapts to garden low spots that retain moisture
• Plant Type: Forb
• Mature Height: 2-4 ft.
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Pink, Purple; July-September
• Wetland Indicator Status: OBL (Obligate Wetland) - Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain region
• Native Range: A regional variety of swamp milkweed found in wetlands, wet meadows, and pond edges across the eastern United States
• Hydrology: Wet
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Drought Tolerance: Low
• Salinity Tolerance: None
• Flood Tolerance: High - This variety shares the straight species' association with seasonally flooded wetlands, wet meadows, and pond margins.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.)
• Growth Habit: Clumping/Mounding
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
• Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports bees, supports butterflies, supports hummingbirds, nectar source