Highlights
Do you have an often wet spot in your yard and want to help Monarchs? These are a plant for you. Swamp Milkweed (also sometimes called Red Milkweed) is a water-loving milkweed species native to half of the United States. These care-free native flowers offer beautiful pink blooms in the summer and don’t mind getting their feet wet. Perfect for rain gardens or along streams, lakes, ponds, or (as you guessed) swamps. Scroll on for planting tips.
Dig Deeper
Explore the history, types, and where to plant native Butterfly Weed
Table of Contents
Where is Swamp Milkweed native?
Swamp Milkweed is native to almost all of North America. Millions of Americans and Canadians can happily plant Swamp Milkweed.
No pesticides or herbicides
Avoid using pesticides or herbicides near Swamp Milkweed plants, as they can harm the Monarch butterflies and caterpillars that rely on the plant.
Plant at least 5 plants (if you can)
The more Swamp Milkweed plants you plant, the easier it will be for mom Monarchs to find and lay their eggs and for the larvae to have enough food and shelter to survive. In general, plant at least five individual plants in an area if you can.
What are good pairings for Swamp Milkweed?
Pair Swamp Milkweed with other native plants that don’t mind some water. Here are some stellar combos:
And that sums up our guide to Swamp Milkweed! This beautiful native flower loves to be near water sources and blooms for a long time in the summer. Plant in groups of 5+ to ensure Monarch moms can find them easily. Looking to meet other native milkweeds? Head over to our Beginner’s Guide to Native Milkweed and meet a few more. Happy planting!
Sources
- Nelson, Gil. Best Native Plants for Southern Gardens: A Handbook for Gardeners, Homeowners, and Professionals, (2010).
- Harstad, Carolyn. Go Native! Gardening with Native Plants and Wildflowers in the Lower Midwest. (1999), 209-210.