Asclepias syriaca, also known as common milkweed, is a North American native perennial that is essential to any pollinator garden. It produces large clusters of fragrant, pink to purple flowers from mid to late summer that are a favorite of Monarch butterflies and other beneficial insects. The plant also has a unique seedpod that opens in the fall to reveal silky, fluffy seeds that are carried away by the wind.
Product Characteristics:
• Height: 120-180 cm (48-72 in)
• Spread: 90-120 cm (36-48 in)
• Flower color: Pink to purple
• Flowering period: Mid to late summer
• Foliage: Large, oval-shaped, green
• Sunlight requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil requirements: Well-draining soil
• Hardiness Zone: 4
Uses:
Asclepias syriaca is an excellent choice for pollinator gardens, meadows, and naturalized areas. The plant is also an important host plant for Monarch butterflies, providing a food source for their larvae.
Benefits:
Asclepias syriaca is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that provides important habitat and food for pollinators. Its fragrant flowers are a favorite of Monarch butterflies and other beneficial insects. The plant is also an important host plant for Monarch butterflies, providing a food source for their larvae.
Companion Plants:
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Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan): This native perennial features bright yellow flowers that would provide a complementary and harmonious color scheme to the pink to purple flowers of the Asclepias syriaca. Both plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil and provide important food and habitat for pollinators.
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Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower): This native perennial features large, pink-purple flowers that would provide a stunning contrast to the pink to purple flowers of the Asclepias syriaca. Both plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil and provide important food and habitat for pollinators.
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Panicum virgatum (Switchgrass): This ornamental grass features upright stems and airy seed heads that would provide a vertical interest and contrast to the low-growing Asclepias syriaca. Both plants prefer moist, well-drained soil and are native to North America.
Care Instructions:
Asclepias syriaca prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate drought but prefers consistent moisture. Deadheading the spent flowers will encourage the plant to produce more blooms. It is best to leave the foliage standing over winter to provide shelter for beneficial insects.
Final Thoughts:
Asclepias syriaca is an important and beautiful addition to any garden. Its fragrant flowers, important role as a host plant for Monarch butterflies, and unique seedpod make it a valuable choice for gardeners and nature lovers alike.
