Swamp Milkweed

Asclepias incarnata. Swamp Milkweed starts growing from a thick, fleshy root later in spring than many other plants. Narrow, strap-like leaves emerge, forming a clump of foliage. Then, from mid-spring to late summer, umbels of fragrant, pink to mauve flowers appear that are so generous with nectar that they attract butterflies and  pollinators of all kinds. The roots of this plant have evolved to thrive in low oxygen environments, including the wet soil found around lakes and streams. Plants can reach 2m (6') in height and will grow in full sun to partial shade. The fibrous stem husks are also used by birds like the American Goldfinch to line their nests.

Hardy to Zone 3. 

Perennial.

Average seeds per gram: 264.