Asclepias syriaca is a large, coarse, weedy plant with large, broad, oblong leaves. It forms round clusters of pale pink, fragrant blooms in the upper leaf axils. Also referred to as Common Milkweed, this perennial's leaves and stems exude a milky sap when cut. This plant is great for large meadows or larger gardens as it spreads rapidly via long (6'+) deep rhizomes. Common Milkweed is native to the eastern two thirds of North America. Its large seed pods split open in the fall releasing papery seeds on silky parachutes. Asclepias syrica's large leaves make it a preferred larval food for Monarch butterflies. This perennial is also a good nectar source.
* As of June 1st these plants have been treated with a systemic pesticide in accordance with the USDA required Japanese Beetle Harmonization Plan. The pesticide is not a neonicotinoid, but if you plan on hosting any insects or insect larvae with these plants please keep them quarantined for at least 3 weeks. This will give the systemic pesticide sufficient time to move through the plant’s root and foliar system, after which they will be safe host plants. If you have any questions or concerns please contact us at 1-804-746-7092.
