Asclepias tuberosa, swamp milkweed
Family: Apocynaceae
Description:
Ascljepias tuberosa is known as one of the few species that is largely pollinated by Monarch butterflies. Like all milkweeds, Monarch caterpillars are the only species that can feed on this toxic plant, which is also used as a nesting site for these ionic butterflies. Asclepias tuberosa can be recognized for lanceolate, dark green leaves with clusters of small purple flowers.
Growing conditions:
This species is grown best in moisture-retentive soil and is known to emerge adjacent to ponds, swamps or creeks. It can grow in full-sun or part-shade.
Suitable uses:
While Monarch butterflies are not typically found in the Vancouver region, the presence of milkweed species provides an important habitat function for the occasional Monarchs does appear. The long blooming floral display also adds summer interest in the landscape.
CC Image courtesy of NatureNerd (probably outside) on Flickr
CC Image courtesy of TallGrass-IA on Flickr