Native Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) This is the species of Milkweed that is most desirable in cultivation as it is non-invasive vs Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). Swamp Milkweed is a perennial species that tolerates wet soils and near anaerobic conditions for short periods of time. The specie is hardy to Zone 3a, however, we do have customers in northern latitudes of zone 2 that have long term success with the species. It has thrived on our farm in Nova Scotia in two similar wet clay-loam locations that few other plants tolerate. In year one, plants grow early in spring forming a thick stand of shoots with lance-tipped oblong leaves evident by mid summer. Although flowers are few in year one, expect to see a few umbels of highly fragrant, pink-mauve flowers loaded with nectar, attracting many pollinators. This plant is particularly attractive to honey bees and butterflies, including the endangered Monarch, which prefers this species, almost exclusively, for laying eggs. The leaves are mildly toxic to most other animals except the Monarch caterpillars which thrive on the consumption of the milky substance. In year two, plants will double in size forming a beautiful 4-5 foot stand, producing many more umbels. Swamp Milkweed can tolerate partial shade but blooms earlier in full sun. A very important plant to incorporate in your perennial flower garden! Please save your seeds and share!
50 seeds per packet $4.45
Growing Instructions: Requires 4-6 weeks of cold-moist stratification if starting indoors. Sow in 2” pots and plant seedlings in the early spring after the danger of frost has passed. Good success with direct-sowing of seeds in the ground in the late fall. Once plants are established, they will spread by self-seeding if seed pods are not removed.
