Plant Description
Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), a tall, showy perennial native to New Jersey, typically grows 3 to 5 feet tall. Its deep pink to rose-purple flowers bloom in large terminal clusters atop tall, branching stems. The narrow, lance-shaped leaves are oppositely arranged along the stem, and elongated, tan-brown seed pods persist into winter, adding year-round interest. Unlike other milkweed species, its sap is less milky. The genus name Asclepias honors Aesculapius, the Greek god of medicine, reflecting the plant’s historical medicinal uses, while the species name incarnata refers to its “flesh-colored” flowers (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center).
Swamp Milkweed thrives in moist to wet soils and tolerates full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for rain gardens, wet meadows, or pond edges. This plant serves as a host for Monarch butterfly larvae, providing critical nourishment during their development, and its fragrant blooms attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds (Missouri Botanical Garden). Unlike Common Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed is less aggressive, making it a suitable choice for garden settings.
