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Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed)

Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed)

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Size

Next crop estimated: Mid May 2027

Estimated dates aren't guaranteed. Crops become ready throughout the month.

A confirmed deer-resistant, obligate wetland species, swamp milkweed is an essential monarch butterfly host plant whose nectar-rich flowers also draw hummingbirds and bees - genuine multi-species pollinator value for rain gardens and wet restoration sites alike.

Species Overview

Asclepias incarnata, or swamp milkweed, is an erect, clump-forming perennial native to wetlands, wet meadows, and pond edges across North America, typically growing 4 to 8 feet tall. Fragrant, pink, star-shaped flower clusters bloom from June through September, followed by elongated seed pods releasing silky-tufted seeds.

Application

  • Rain garden, pond-edge, and wet meadow restoration
  • Monarch butterfly larval host habitat
  • Deer-pressured wetland plantings - confirmed deer resistant
  • Hummingbird and bee nectar plantings

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

  • Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
  • Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Wet soils; rich, muddy soils preferred
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Drought Tolerance: Low
  • Flood Tolerance: High - Commonly called swamp milkweed for its association with highly saturated soils in wetlands and areas that flood seasonally; natural habitat includes wet meadows, floodplains, riverbanks, pond shores, and marshes.
  • Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
  • Plant Type: Forb
  • Mature Height: 4-8 ft.
  • Fall Color: Insignificant/None
  • Bloom Color / Period: Pink; June-September
  • Wetland Indicator Status: OBL (Obligate Wetland)
  • Native Range: Northeast/Mid-Atlantic (full list)
  • Hydrology: Wet
  • Salinity Tolerance: None
  • Growth Habit: Clumping/Mounding
  • USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-9
  • Deer Resistance: Yes (Rarely Damaged)
  • Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.)
  • Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports bees, supports butterflies, supports hummingbirds, nectar source

Planting Guidance

  • IMPORTANT: all plant parts can induce vomiting and diarrhea if ingested, consistent with the milkweed genus. Severely affected by drought, especially over consecutive years - site in consistently moist locations for best results.
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