Common Names: Swamp Milkweed
Scientific Name: Asclepias incarnata
 
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial
Size: Typically grows to a height of 2-4 ft.
Foliage: The leaves are lance-shaped and typically green but may have a slightly grayish tint.
Bloom Color: Pink to Deep Rose, with small clusters of flowers.
Bloom Time: Summer to Early Fall
 
Growing Conditions
Water Use: High (Thrives in moist to wet conditions)
Light Requirement: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Moisture: Moist to Wet
 
Ecological Benefits
Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) is a native perennial plant that serves as a vital component of Maryland's wetland and riparian ecosystems. Its pink to deep rose flowers attract a variety of pollinators, especially butterflies like Monarchs, Swallowtails, and Fritillaries. This plant's preference for moist to wet soils makes it well-suited to wetland restoration efforts and rain gardens.
 
Swamp Milkweed provides essential habitat and nectar resources, supporting the health and diversity of local ecosystems in Maryland. Its adaptability to full sun and partial shade conditions also makes it a valuable addition to gardens and natural areas where wetter soils prevail.