This milkweed species has lovely rose colored blooms that smell of vanilla. This is a host plant for both Monarch and Swallowtail butterflies. It grows to about 4 feet tall and thrives in wet areas but will grow in average to slightly dry soil. It doesn’t mind heavy clay soil either. It will bloom in early to mid July for about a month. You should expect it to produce mature seed pods in late August to early September.
Planting/Harvesting Notes
- Plant in large open space in well drained soil with full sun.
- Milkweed likes to grow in disturbed areas so maintain a weed free area until the plants are established
- Once the flowers bloom, they will be replaced by seed pods. Either save these seed pods for later or remove them to prevent the milkweed from spreading
- Milkweed will come back every year and will produce more of itself very vigorously.
Seed saving notes
Wait until pods form on the plant. Once the pods have dried and slightly popped open, you should see brown seeds inside. Collect this and separate them from the fluffy parts. Store the seeds in a labeled paper envelope/bag.
To start from seed, place in a coffee filter or paper towel and seal into a plastic baggie. Store in the refrigerator for 30 days, then plant in potting soil. Transplant when seedlings are 4 inches tall and all danger of frost has passed. Alternatively, scatter seeds in the fall and rake into the soil. They should germinate the following spring.
