Common Milkweed

Asclepias syriaca ‘Common Milkweed’ is a very familiar plant to many eastern gardeners. This perennial is perfect as a filler between your taller perennials and adds a nice touch of fragrance mid-late summer. The foliage is thick and glossy so it adds texture to help your garden look lush even in the peak of the summer! Native to the US from Canada to Georgia, and west to Texas. Reseeds in fall but is very easy to harvest. Clip off the seed pods before they open to help control growth but be sure to leave the foliage!

Common Milkweed is vital for the survival of the Monarch Butterfly which their population has been in a slow decline over the years. The large leaves are an essential food plant for Monarch caterpillars. Watch as the eggs hatch and larvae grow into the signature yellow striped caterpillars. Planting this perennial is a wonderful way to bring more excitement to your garden while also helping our native pollinators to thrive! (“Butterfly Weed” is a close relative, with bright orange flowers.) The plants spread vigorously by underground roots and should be planted inside areas of your landscape where it can be allowed to spread without overrunning other ornamental perennials. Ditches, fence lines and other areas with average to damp soils are ideal. 36-48″ tall x 24-30″ wide.

Asclepias syriaca Native Range: AL , AR , CT , DC , DE , GA , IA , IL , IN , KS , KY , LA , MA , MD , ME , MI , MN , MO , MS, MT , NC , ND , NE , NH , NJ , NY , OH , OK , OR , PA , RI , SC , SD , TN , TX , VA , VT , WI , WV.