Common Milkweed

While the name may have you believe differently, there is nothing common about the Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). Used to make fibrous cord, food, and even medicine through the years, this specimen is a truly versatile plant. Nowadays, it's mostly known for being the ideal pit-stop for Monarch butterflies.

Common Milkweed is a perennial that grows as a single strong stalk with long thick leaves sprouting from the sides. Each summer, the plant will erupt with rounded clusters of pink or white florets.

Have you ever wondered why milkweed is such a Monarch butterfly staple? They lay their eggs on the underside of these plants because milkweed has a chemical that, when ingested by the caterpillar, makes them distasteful to most predators.

Of course, the real show starts once the caterpillars turn into butterflies. Adding Common Milkweed to your naturalized or pollinator garden ensures an unbelievable winged show year after year. It is also one of the best ways you can help the Monarch butterfly migration pattern as recently, paths have been changing due to a lack of habitat.

Common Milkweed is native to North America and can grow in a wide array of conditions. It grows best in well-drained soil somewhere it can bask in the sun for hours. This milkweed type isn't picky about the composition of the soil at all, in fact, it prefers soil other plants detest as there is less competition for sunlight.

If the host of butterflies this flower will bring isn't enough to convince you to plant a few, then maybe the sweet fragrance it emits will be. Each bloom sends out a subtle plume of perfume that is just enough to notice and enjoy without being overbearing.

Adding a Common Milkweed to your garden can help cover any eyesores, send a sweet fragrance throughout the yard, and provide very needed habitat for Monarch butterflies. Order one or many more for your pollinator garden today!