SCIENTIFIC NAME: Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate'
COMMON NAME: Soulmate Swamp Milkweed
GARDEN SIZE: 3–3.5' tall x 1.5–2' wide
GROWTH RATE: Moderate
USDA ZONE: 3–8
EXPOSURE: Full Sun
WATER & SOIL: Prefers well-drained medium to wet soil and has low to average water requirements. Tolerates clay soil.
HABIT (FORM): Upright, branching perennial
FOLIAGE: Narrow green leaves; tolerant of clay and wet soils
FLOWERS: Deep rose pink, showy and fragrant; blooms July to August; attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
FRUIT: Up to 4 inch long green seed pods that open to release seeds with silky tails.
PLANT ORIGIN: Native to northeastern and southeastern United States, including Tennessee.
WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Sole host plant for the monarch butterfly. Feeds native bees, moths, and butterflies. Attracts beneficial insects and hummingbirds.
FERTILIZING: Give a root stimulant or 4-3-3 fertilizer during initial planting, then feed lightly in late winter or early spring with compost or an organic fertilizer. Never use pesticides.
PRUNING: Cut back to just above soil level in early spring. Deadheading can encourage additional blooming. Leave the seedheads in place over the fall and winter to support wildlife.
TOXICITY FLAGS: Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Not considered edible for humans. The white latex sap can also irritate the skin and eyes if touched.
USES: Meadows, prairies, pollinator gardens.