Native Intelligence Asclepias syriaca — Common Milkweed “It can be hard to convince people to plant common milkweed in a traditional landscape because it’s not well-behaved. This species--the main plant for monarch butterfly larvae--is key. It’s been demonized as a weed for so long but if you want monarch butterflies, you have to include that species. That dusky-lavender bloom is extremely fragrant--one of the most fragrant flowers I’ve ever smelled. I think it’s underrated in even a native wildflower planting. It’s underrated as a blooming species, not just a key pollinator plant. Those big spiky pods are very interesting as well later in the year.”
Asclepias syriaca — Common Milkweed
Cultivate: • • •
Plant in full sun, dry to medium soil Height: 2-4’ and spreads aggressively by runners Partners: Panicum, Liatris, bluestem, prairie dropseed, coneflowers
Bonus: Resists deer and rabbits and is drought-tolerant.
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The Landscape Contractor February 2017