Milkweed (Swamp)

A special contribution by our grower Fatima! 
 
This member of the milkweed family adapts easily and elegantly to garden cultivation. They form sturdy, upright clumps that grow to between 3’ and 5’ tall and bloom in July and August. Best in full sun, they will tolerate a bit of light shade. They also prefer high moisture areas, often growing right at the edge of ponds and rivers, but will settle into most gardens with little, if any, fuss. Swamp milkweed's smooth narrow leaves are lance-shaped with sharp tips and occur in pairs. Sometimes the leaf's edges turn inward and upward suggesting the prow of a ship. Like their cousin, Common Milkweed, these are a preferred host for the caterpillar stage of the Monarch butterfly and a popular nectar source for the adults of this species and many others.
 
Perennial
Bloom Color: Pink/Purple
Bloom Time: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sept,  Oct – Does not bloom in the first year – Will bloom after two years
Light Requirement: Full Sun, Part Shade
Soil Moisture: Moist , Wet
Soil Description: Rich, wet, very muddy to average garden moisture.
Conditions Comments: With its showy flower clusters that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, swamp milkweed is underutilized in gardens. In moist soils or in a pond, it will thrive. Good for wetland gardens and habitat.