Plant Profile: Asclepias incarnata

Swamp Milkweed is a robust perennial herb that can reach heights of up to 5 feet. It is indigenous to the central and eastern regions of the United States, typically thriving in moist environments such as streams, ponds, and bogs. The plant produces striking pink flowers, occasionally appearing in a rose-purple hue, which bloom in mid-spring and continue to flourish until early fall. As the seed pods mature, they burst open, allowing seeds to be carried away by the wind.

This species serves as a vital food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars, while its blossoms attract a variety of pollinators. It is well-suited for use in naturalized areas, pollinator gardens, or along the banks of ponds and streams, thriving in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade. Although it is primarily found in wet habitats, Swamp Milkweed can also adapt to drier locations, provided the soil is moderately moist, such as clay or loam.

In recognition of its beauty and ecological importance, this plant was honored as the 2005 NC Wildflower of the Year, a designation awarded by the North Carolina Botanical Garden with support from the Garden Club of North Carolina.