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Asclepias syriaca – Common Milkweed

Additional information

Size

, ,

Type

Family

Native?

US Native Plants

Height Range (ft.)

3.00 to 6.00

Bloom Description

Fragrant, large, rounded clusters, star-shaped flowers

Sun

Water

,

Maintenance

Suggested Use

, , ,

Growth Rate

Attracts

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Asclepias syriaca – Common Milkweed

Asclepias syriaca, or Common Milkweed, is essential for the survival of monarch butterflies, serving as the primary host plant for their larvae.

This robust perennial thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, featuring clusters of fragrant, pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from late spring to midsummer. Not only does it attract monarchs, but it also invites a variety of pollinators with its nectar-rich flowers.

Easy to grow and maintain, Common Milkweed is perfect for wildflower meadows, naturalized areas, and pollinator gardens, enhancing biodiversity and adding vibrant beauty to any outdoor space.

$12.99$129.99

Please note: Sizes 1.5 Gallon and up can’t be shipped outside the counties of Nassau, Suffolk, Brooklyn, and Queens.

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Additional information

Size

, ,

Type

Family

Native?

US Native Plants

Height Range (ft.)

3.00 to 6.00

Bloom Description

Fragrant, large, rounded clusters, star-shaped flowers

Sun

Water

,

Maintenance

Suggested Use

, , ,

Growth Rate

Attracts

, ,

Product Description

Embrace the beauty and ecological importance of Asclepias syriaca, commonly known as Common Milkweed. This native perennial is not just a garden plant; it’s a vital part of the monarch butterfly’s lifecycle, providing the only food source for their caterpillars. With its striking pinkish-purple blooms, Common Milkweed adds a splash of color to the landscape while playing a critical role in sustaining butterfly populations.

Why Plant Common Milkweed?

  • Monarch Habitat: Essential for the reproduction of monarch butterflies, offering a breeding ground and food source for their larvae.
  • Pollinator Attraction: The sweet-scented flowers are a magnet for bees, hummingbirds, and other beneficial insects, contributing to the health of your local ecosystem.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: The lush foliage and vibrant flower clusters make an attractive addition to any garden setting, particularly in areas dedicated to natural beauty and wildlife.
  • Environmental Impact: Planting Common Milkweed helps restore native habitats and supports biodiversity, crucial in today’s changing climate.

Cultivation Tips

  • Sunlight Needs: Prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade.
  • Soil Requirements: Grows best in well-drained soils but is adaptable to various soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
  • Watering: Once established, it is drought-resistant but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.
  • Spacing: Space plants approximately 2-3 feet apart to allow for natural growth and airflow.

Garden Design and Uses

Common Milkweed is ideally suited for wildflower gardens, meadows, and borders where its height (up to 6 feet) and spread can complement other native perennials. It’s also an excellent choice for rewilding projects and conservation landscapes where ecological benefits are prioritized.

Supporting Biodiversity

By incorporating Asclepias syriaca into your landscape, you’re not only adding visual interest but also playing a vital role in supporting local wildlife. Common Milkweed’s ability to attract a variety of pollinators and serve as a host plant for monarch butterflies makes it indispensable for ecological gardening and biodiversity conservation efforts.

Plant Asclepias syriaca in your garden to enjoy the dual benefits of enhancing the beauty of your outdoor space and contributing to the preservation of vital butterfly populations and other wildlife. It’s a natural choice for any gardener looking to make a positive impact on the environment.

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Asclepias syriaca – Common Milkweed

$12.99$129.99
Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of growing conditions does Common Milkweed need?

Common Milkweed thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It’s extremely adaptable—growing well in poor, dry soils, but also tolerates loamy or even clay-heavy soil. Once established, it’s very drought-tolerant and perfect for naturalized meadows or pollinator gardens.

Is Common Milkweed good for pollinators?

Absolutely. Asclepias syriaca is a critical host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars, and its large clusters of fragrant pink flowers are a nectar source for a wide variety of bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects. It’s a foundational plant for any native or wildlife garden.

Is Common Milkweed invasive or aggressive?

Common Milkweed spreads by underground rhizomes, so it can form colonies over time. While this makes it excellent for large spaces or restoration projects, it can be a bit aggressive in small, highly managed gardens. If spreading is a concern, consider planting it in containers or using root barriers.

When does Common Milkweed bloom and what does it look like?

It typically blooms from June to August, producing large, spherical clusters of soft pink to purplish flowers. The blooms are fragrant and are followed by elongated seed pods that release silky seeds in late summer to fall.

When should I plant Common Milkweed and how long does it take to establish?

You can plant Asclepias syriaca in spring after your last frost, or in fall before the ground freezes. Germination from seed can be slow and may require cold stratification, but once established, it’s long-lived and spreads readily. Container-grown plugs (like what we ship at Bumbee’s) usually establish more quickly in the landscape.

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