Asclepias syriaca, also known as Common Milkweed, is a tall clump forming native perennial famous for its role as a host plant for Monarch butterflies. Its fragrant clusters of soft pink to mauve flowers bloom in midsummer followed by ornamental seed pods that split open to release silky haired seeds. Thriving in a wide range of soils it naturalizes easily in sunny meadows, borders, and pollinator gardens. Height & Spread: 36 - 48 in x 24 - 36 in Bloom Time: June to August Light Requirements: Full sun Soil Preference: Average, well drained soils; tolerates clay Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established Deer Resistance: Deer and rabbit resistant due to milky latex sap Native Status Asclepias syriaca is native to much of eastern and central North America, thriving in open fields, prairies, and roadsides. WILDLIFE & INSECTS Bees Flowers attract honeybees, bumblebees, and specialist native bees like Melissodes. Butterflies Critical host plant for Monarch caterpillars and attracts adult butterflies including Swallowtails and Painted Ladies. Moths Supports several moth species including the Milkweed Tussock Moth and Hummingbird Clearwing. Birds Goldfinches and other seed eating birds use the silky fibers from seed pods for nesting material. Beneficial Insects Provides nectar for predatory wasps and hoverflies that help control pest populations. Spacing & Landscape Use Spacing Recommendations: Allow 24 - 36 in spacing to accommodate mature clumps and natural spread. Landscape Placement: Ideal for naturalized meadows, pollinator borders, and native plantings where its height and wildlife value can be fully appreciated. Companion Plants Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Provides fine textured foliage and fall color that complements milkweed’s upright habit. Monarda fistulosa (Wild Bergamot) - Lavender to pink blooms and aromatic foliage attract pollinators and echo the milkweed’s tones. Echinacea purpurea 'Magnus' - Large purple coneflowers pair well with the vertical stature and pink blooms of milkweed. Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' - Arching sprays of golden yellow flowers complement the pink milkweed blooms in late summer. Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' - Golden black eyed Susan blooms in summer alongside milkweed for bold color contrast.
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