plant profile

Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) is the plant that often comes to mind when we hear the word “milkweed.” The upright form and large oval leaves have a bold, architectural effect that contrasts so well with prairie grasses and numerous prairie wildflowers. This familiar milkweed thrives in almost any well-drained soil and produces a profusion of lavender to pink flowers. The extremely fragrant blooms attract and benefit many pollinators. This is one of the easiest and fastest to establish of the milkweeds, as it spreads rapidly by rhizomes and grows readily from seed.

 

Plant Type: Perennial

Mature Size: 3 – 5 feet

Roots: Taproot

Exposure: Full Sun

Bloom Time: May – August

Soil Type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, and Sand

Soil Texture: Well Drained

Water Needs: Low

Maintenance: Low