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.