Rose Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

Rose Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)

We think Rose Milkweed is easily one of the most stunning flowers in the Midwest. Its lush, jewel-toned pink bloom are lightly scented with vanilla, making them as inviting to humans as they are to pollinators. The flower clusters sit atop tall, elegant stems in mid to late summer, creating a soft, glowing effect in the garden that feels almost tropical when the light hits them just right. 

Although the older common name, “Swamp Milkweed,” makes it sound like a plant only for wetland edges, Rose Milkweed does just fine in a typical Wisconsin garden bed. In fact, here in southeastern Wisconsin, where summers are humid and soils tend to hold some moisture, it thrives in conditions that are just moderately moist. Give it full sun and soil that doesn't dry out completely, and it’ll return year after year, looking better each season. 

Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to light shade
Soil: Moist to wet soil; performs well in average garden beds with regular moisture
Height: 3–5 feet
Spread: 2–3 feet
Zones: 3–8
Bloom time: July through August

Wildlife Value
A critical host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars, and a top nectar source for countless beneficial insects, including bumblebees, skippers, and swallowtail

Blooms Alongside:
Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum), Culver’s Root (Veronicastrum virginicum), Prairie Blazing Star (Liatris pycnostachya), Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea), Prairie Coreopsis (Coreopsis palmata), Steeplebush (Spiraea tomentosa), Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)