Common Milkweed

Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) is the host plant of the monarch butterfly and an important nectar source for bees and butterflies. The blooms are incredibly fragrant. Common milkweed sap is toxic, so growing it in areas where livestock graze should be discouraged. Good alternatives are swamp and butterfly milkweed, which are also monarch host plants but are less toxic.

Growing Instructions

Cold, moist stratification required. Mix seeds with moist substrate (vermiculite, perlite or moss) and place in a plastic bag and refrigerate for 6-8 weeks. Sow seed at 1/8 inch depth. Do not let seedling dry out while it is establishing.

OR

Sow directly outdoors in late fall to overwinter.