Asclepias incarnata, commonly known as Swamp Milkweed, is a native perennial plant found in wet meadows, prairies, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant is known for its striking clusters of pink to rose-colored flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, particularly butterflies, including the iconic monarch butterfly, which relies on milkweed species for food during its larval stage. The plant features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and can grow to a height of 2 to 6 feet, making it an excellent vertical accent for wetland or garden landscapes.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Asclepias incarnata is an excellent addition to pollinator gardens, rain gardens, or naturalized landscapes. It provides ecological benefits by supporting pollinators and offers vibrant color and seasonal interest. The plant is also an attractive, low-maintenance option for areas with consistent moisture.
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Asclepias incarnata, commonly known as Swamp Milkweed, is a native perennial plant found in wet meadows, prairies, and along streambanks throughout Illinois. It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
This plant is known for its striking clusters of pink to rose-colored flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, particularly butterflies, including the iconic monarch butterfly, which relies on milkweed species for food during its larval stage. The plant features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and can grow to a height of 2 to 6 feet, making it an excellent vertical accent for wetland or garden landscapes.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Asclepias incarnata is an excellent addition to pollinator gardens, rain gardens, or naturalized landscapes. It provides ecological benefits by supporting pollinators and offers vibrant color and seasonal interest. The plant is also an attractive, low-maintenance option for areas with consistent moisture.
4o mini
Bloom: late summer
Habitats: drainage ditches; low areas along rivers and ponds; marshes; moist black soil prairies; open to partially shaded areas in floodplain forests; seeps and fens; swamps; thickets
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: wet to moist
Plant type (height): forb (2 to 6 feet)
Requirements: full sun to partial sun
Soil: mucky clay; rich loam; silt
