Swamp milkweed

Swamp milkweed is a perennial notable for its large, spherical inflorescences of bright pink to red flowers, which emerge in midsummer and attract a variety of pollinators, including monarch butterflies.

These flowers are not only beautiful, but also play a crucial role in preserving butterfly populations. In autumn, the flowers give way to spectacular seed pods, which open to reveal fluffy seeds, adding visual interest in the late season.

This milkweed prefers moist, even boggy, soils, making it ideal for rain gardens, riparian buffers, or wetland areas. It requires full sun exposure for optimal flowering and is relatively easy to grow, with few care requirements.

Milkweed seeds must undergo cold stratification to ensure germination.