Pink Milkweed

Asclepias incarnata

Size: 1 Gallon Availability

Flower
Max size: 5’ tall x 3’ wide
Average size: 3′ tall x 2′ wide

Very Moist, Usually Moist, Moist to Dry
Clay, Loam, Sand
Sun, Part Shade
Not tolerant of salt or brackish water

AKA: Marsh Milkweed, Swamp Butterfly Weed, Swamp Milkweed

Rose Milkweed is an earlier bloomer than other Asclepias species; it can bloom spring through summer, putting off pinkish-white flowers. It goes dormant in winter but returns from rootstock in spring. No pruning is needed, but it can be cut back in spring before blooming to encourage a bushier growth habit. It looks best when grown in wet areas where it can be grown in clumps. It will adapt to drier conditions if in clay or loam (soils that hold more moisture naturally).

It is a larval host to Monarch, Queen, and Soldier butterflies. It also attracts many other pollinators, especially native bees and butterflies. It is deer and rabbit resistant.

The dried stems create a strong fiber that can be used to weave cords, rope, and textiles. Its flower heads were added to fresh soup or cornmeal mush by Native American tribes such as the Meskwaki, Iroquois, and Dakota. They made infusions of the roots to use as a strengthening bath for children and adults. Cold infusions of the roots were applied to heal babies’ navels, help expel tapeworms, and in general use as a laxative. Although milkweeds are poisonous raw, the young shoots, leaves and seed pods are all edible cooked. Place them in cold water, bring to a boil, and simmer until tender. (1) (2)

Additional Sources: NC State Extension, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center