Asclepias syriaca

Asclepias syriaca: Common Milkweed

Rugged, upright, and ecologically essential, Asclepias syriaca is the iconic native milkweed known for its soft pink, vanilla-scented flower clusters and its vital role in supporting Monarch butterflies. Blooming from early to midsummer, its dome-shaped umbels attract a wide range of pollinators, while its coarse, grey-green leaves serve as a crucial larval food source for Monarch caterpillars. Tall and unbothered by drought, this prairie stalwart thrives in sunny, open spaces and is a cornerstone plant for native restoration and pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 100–150 cm
• Spread: 60–90 cm and expanding by rhizomes
• Flower Colour: Soft pink to dusty rose
• Flowering Period: June to August
• Foliage: Broad, grey-green, slightly hairy leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
• Soil Requirements: Average to sandy or clay soil; well-drained

Uses and Benefits: Asclepias syriaca is a foundational species in meadow plantings, pollinator gardens, and prairie restorations. While its spread can be assertive, it is ideal for naturalized spaces where its ecological value outweighs formality. In addition to Monarch support, its nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. It’s drought tolerant, deer resistant, and excellent for building biodiversity in open, sunny landscapes.

Companion Plants: Pair Asclepias syriaca with Echinacea purpurea, Schizachyrium scoparium, and Solidago 'Fireworks' for a resilient, pollinator-rich prairie planting with bold texture, colour progression, and habitat value.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Once established, it is highly drought tolerant and requires little care. Allow space for spreading, as it expands by underground rhizomes. Deadhead if self-seeding is not desired. Leave stems standing into fall and winter for wildlife value, and cut back in early spring.

History: Native across much of eastern and central North America, Asclepias syriaca has long played a critical role in native ecosystems. It is the most widespread of North American milkweeds and serves as a primary host plant for Monarch butterflies, whose populations depend on milkweed species for reproduction and migration.

Final Thoughts: Bold, beneficial, and deeply rooted in our natural heritage, Asclepias syriaca is more than a wildflower—it’s a lifeline for pollinators and a symbol of ecological stewardship in every sunny garden that welcomes it.