Asclepias incarnata Swamp Milkweed
General
Reaching to four feet tall. Pink or purple umbel flowers, occasionally white. Lance shaped, opposite leaves up to six inches long.
Plant Description
Showcases tall, upright stems adorned with narrow, lance-shaped leaves. It produces dense clusters of small, umbel flowers that range in color from soft pink to lavender. The plant's overall appearance is striking, with its vibrant floral displays contrasting against its lush green foliage. Reaching to four feet tall.
Height (ft)
2-4'
Soil moisture
Moist, Wet
Soil types
Clay soils
Wetland indicator
OBL
Shade tolerance
Intolerant, Full Sun
Bloom color
Pink, Purple
Bloom period
Summer
Drought tolerance
None
Salinity tolerance
None
Range
Throughout most of the continental United States, with most of the population being concentrated in the northeastern quarter. Some disjunct populations as far west as Idaho, and in Texas and Florida.
Additional Information
According to the USDA NRCS, Norman A. Berg National Plant Materials Center, swamp milkweed have been used by Chippewa and Iroquois externally to strengthen the body. The Iroquois and Meskwaki used a decoction of the roots as a deworming agent. Toxic in large doses and the tougher stem fibers were used to make ropes and twine.