Perennials

Asclepias incarnata

Swamp milkweed

Also known as: Marsh milkweed

Swamp milkweed, photo by Joshua Mayer

Pink flower clusters rise over tall, narrow-leaved stems. A useful milkweed for moist pollinator beds and pondside planting. Use it in moist borders, rain gardens and pond margins.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Mature size: 3–5 ft. tall × 2–3 ft. wide
Water: Moist to occasionally wet
Hardiness: USDA zones 3–9
Bloom: Pink to rose-purple; summer.

Sizes & prices

#1$29.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Resistance & tolerances

Drought: Prefers steady moisture; not the dry-site milkweed.
Wet soil: Tolerates occasional wetness and moist clay.
Deer & rabbits: Resistant, not browse-proof.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Caterpillar host: Monarch

Native range

Native range / parentage: Native to central and eastern North America. Species native to Kentucky.
Tristate native status: Species native to Kentucky.

Keep in mind: Harmful if eaten. Sap can irritate skin and eyes; wear gloves.

Growing & care

Seeds: Pods release wind-borne seeds; remove before opening to limit volunteers.
Maintenance: Leave sound stems for winter interest and wildlife if desired. Remove dead stems before fresh spring growth, avoiding new shoots and retaining healthy basal foliage.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

www.environment.fhwa.dot.gov

Royal Horticultural Society

Photo: Joshua Mayer · CC-BY-SA 2.0

Reviewed September 19, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.