Common milkweed

Asclepias syriaca

Bloom time: June - August

Bloom Color: White/Pink

Height:  3 ft

Sun exposure: Full/Partial

Soil Moisture: Medium Wet - Dry

Deer resistant: Yes

Other Common Names: Silkweed

Fun facts:

When damaged, the plant exudes a milky latex containing toxic compounds called cardenolides. These serve as a chemical defense against herbivores, making it unpalatable to many animals, and is where it gets the name “Milkweed” from.

Its flowers have a unique structure that traps the legs of visiting insects, sometimes even leading to their accidental death if they can’t escape. This process ensures only strong pollinators succeed, enhancing pollination efficiency.

 

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