Swamp Milkweed
Herbaceous perennial growing 90-150 cm tall with lance-shaped leaves. Produces clusters of pink to mauve flowers in midsummer, followed by slender seed pods. Prefers consistently moist to wet soils and full sun to partial shade. Important nectar source and larval host for monarch butterflies. Attracts various pollinators. Suitable for rain gardens, pond edges, and moist meadows. Unlike other milkweeds, does not spread aggressively. Native to wetlands across North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Pink to Mauve
Bloom Time: Mid-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Sun
Moisture: Moist to Wet
Phenology: Stems emerge mid-May. Leaves fully developed by early June. Blooms July-August. Pods develop August-September, releasing silky-tufted seeds October. Dies back completely after frost.
Wildlife Value: Primary host plant for Monarch butterflies; superior nectar source for butterflies and native bees; seeds eaten by songbirds; deer resistant
Habit Over Time: Forms upright clumps that gradually expand from a central crown. While it self-seeds readily in moist conditions, it does not spread aggressively through rhizomes. The strong stems provide good structure while allowing enough space between them for companion plants.
Height: Tall (3-5 feet)