Whorled Milkweed
Herbaceous perennial reaching 30-90 cm tall. Features narrow leaves arranged in distinctive whorls and small clusters of white flowers in summer. Grows from deep taproot in dry, well-drained soils and full sun. Important monarch butterfly host plant. Extremely drought-tolerant once established. Suitable for prairie gardens, dry sites, and pollinator habitats. Native to central and eastern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: White
Bloom Time: Mid to Late Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Sun
Moisture: Dry to Moist-Drained
Phenology: Emerges from taproot May-June. Distinctive whorled foliage develops through summer. Small white flower clusters appear July-September. Pods develop and release seeds with silky hairs September-October. Plant goes dormant after first frost.
Wildlife Value: Critical monarch butterfly host plant; important nectar source for native bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects; seeds provide winter food for birds
Habit Over Time: Creates modest clumps through limited rhizomatous growth and self-seeding. Provides essential monarch habitat while remaining well-behaved in garden settings.
Height: Medium (1-3 feet)