Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) is a perennial flowering plant native to North America. It typically grows in moist, swampy areas and along the edges of streams and ponds. The plant can reach heights of 3 to 5 feet and has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are about 3 to 6 inches long. Swamp Milkweed is known for its attractive clusters of fragrant pink to mauve flowers, which bloom from mid-summer to early fall. These flowers are highly attractive to butterflies, particularly the Monarch butterfly, as well as other pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
Swamp Milkweed thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist to wet soil conditions. It is an excellent choice for rain gardens, wet meadows, and naturalized areas. In addition to its ornamental value, Swamp Milkweed plays an important ecological role by providing food and habitat for various pollinators and serving as a host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars. The plant's robust and deep root system also helps in soil stabilization and water filtration.