The Swamp Milkweed...great planting for moist soil conditions and attracting the Monarch Butterfly

About The Swamp Milkweed

The Swamp Milkweed is the perfect addition to my pond landscape planting. A native and/or wildflower to my region of the prairies, the Swamp Milkweed fits in well with my other perennials that surround my larger pond.

As many gardeners know, the Milkweed is the host plant for the Monarch butterfly caterpillar. The Monarch butterfly feeds on the flowers, lays eggs on the plants and the emerging caterpillar feeds on the plant leaves.

I have the habit of searching my plants for the curled up leaves, however I bypass my Swamp Milkweed and wait for the striped caterpillars to emerge.

Besides the Monarch, the Milkweed also attracts the Swallowtail, Painted Ladies and Hummingbirds. Obviously, this wild flower makes a great nectar source.

How To Grow The Swamp Milkweed

The Swamp Milkweed has scented thick white roots making it perfect for the bog garden, heavy wet soil or any area that stays moist. For me, it's perfect at the edge of our larger pond. The waterfall's natural spray keeps the soil continuously wet.

Clusters of red and pink flowers sit firmly on top of a milky sap filled stem. Be aware that this perennial grows quite tall. Anywhere from 3ft (90-120cm) to 4ft and if planting more than one, remember to space at least 1ft apart (30cm). The cluster coloring can also be found in white.

When the cluster blooms are spent, instead of deadheading why not allow the pods to dry. With the Milkweed, when the dried pods split open in late August to September, the seeds have silky hairs attached to them making them like parachutes floating in the air.

With respect to the milky sap within the stem. If you have sensitive skin, be careful when handling the stems, especially if they break open. The sap could cause a mild irritation to sensitive skin as it is a mildly toxic bitter sap.

If planting the Milkweed try planting it alongside the Daylilies or the Evergreen Ogon or the Nelia Argyranthemum or Palm Sedges.

Check out my Site Index Page for a listing of additional annuals and perennials to plant in your flower garden design.

The Swamp Milkweed Features

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