A tough native with fragrant flowers and exceptional habitat value for monarchs and other pollinators.
Common milkweed is a robust native perennial with fragrant mauve flower clusters and distinctive seed pods. Its foliage is an essential food source for monarch caterpillars.
Plant details
Sun
Full sun
Moisture
Low, Moderate
Height
90–180 cm
Spread
60–120 cm
Hardiness zone
3–9
Bloom months
Jun, Jul, Aug
Flower colour
Pink, Mauve
Foliage colour
Green
Foliage type
Deciduous
Good to know
Pollinator friendly
Deer resistant
Native
Drought tolerant
Care
Plant in full sun where its spreading roots have room to naturalize. Use well-drained soil, water during establishment, and leave some stems and seed pods through winter for habitat.
