Asclepias syriaca
Common Milkweed
General
Known as common milkweed, is a perennial plant native to North America renowned for its large, rounded clusters of pink to purple flowers. It plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems, particularly by providing a vital habitat and food source for monarch butterflies during their life cycle. The plant features broad, lance-shaped leaves and can grow up to 5 feet tall, with a milky latex sap that gives it its common name.
Plant Description
Large, oval leaves arranged in an alternating pattern along its sturdy stem. It produces dense, rounded clusters of star-shaped pink to purple flowers that emit a sweet fragrance. The plant's distinctive, thick, and milky sap-filled stems and leaves contribute to its unique and recognizable appearance.
Height (ft)
3-5'
Soil moisture
Dry to Moist
Soil types
Sandy, clayey, rocky soils
Wetland indicator
UPL
Shade tolerance
Intolerant, Full Sun
Bloom color
Pink, Purple
Bloom period
Mid-summer to early fall
Drought tolerance
High
Salinity tolerance
Low to moderate
Range
Found in the northeastern quarter of the United States including New England and extending west to Michigan and Minnesota.
Kartesz, J.T. 2024. Floristic Synthesis of North America, Version 1.0. Biota of North America Program (BONAP) [website http://bonap.org/]
Additional Information
According to Adkins Arboretum's Indigenous Peoples' Perspective Project, this species was used in many different ways. The young sprouts are boiled and eaten as well as the unopened flower buds. Fibers were used are cord material as well as the pod fibers used for stuffing in pillows and sleeping mats. Medicinally, this species was used to treat venereal diseases, rheumatism, kidney dysfunction and backaches. This plant was also used topically to treat cuts, bee stings and ringworm.