The term ‘weed’ is commonly used in gardening to describe plants that have sprouted in unintended locations. However, what truly defines a weed? What makes a plant that appears suddenly undesirable? For those who cultivate pollinator gardens, the definition of a weed may differ entirely. Pollinator gardens are primarily created to support the needs of pollinating insects and other fauna. Therefore, gardeners tend to appreciate plants that appear suddenly as they often provide necessary food sources for these creatures.
In pollinator gardens, there is one plant that is considered indispensable. Without it, the most recognizable pollinators may not survive. This plant is milkweed. Milkweed is not only the sole larval food for the monarch butterfly but also an essential nectar source for all types of pollinating insects and hummingbirds.
Unfortunately, the population of monarch butterflies has significantly decreased in recent years, with a 22% decline in population over the last year alone. The destruction of their migration grounds due to deforestation and urbanization in Mexico and California, along with the impact of pesticides and herbicides, has marred habitats around the United States. As gardeners, we cannot control most of these factors, but we can help maintain the monarch’s host plants and offer them sanctuary in our gardens. To sustain the monarch population and feed other native pollinators, gardeners should cultivate one or more of the 21 types of milkweed native to different regions of the United States.
The Antelope-horns milkweed is a plant that grows in clusters, characterized by its narrow, pointed leaves and stunning star-shaped flowers that come in a combination of white and purple hues.
The scientific name for a certain type of plant is Asclepias asperula.
Type of plant that grows and lives for many years is known as a perennial.
Sunlight needs
Require exposure to full sunlight.
How tall is it?
1-2 feet in height.
This species of milkweed is suitable for hardiness zones 7-9 and is called “antelope horns” due to the shape of its seed pods. It grows in clumps and has long, thin, lanceolate leaves that fold slightly lengthwise. The stems can be bright green or have a slight purple tinge. Its flowers grow in round clusters and are intricately designed with five light green petals arranged in a star shape. The interior is white and purple with five small hoods that spread out like a star when the flowers bloom. The plant’s stems are lightly pubescent while the leaves are not.
Butterflies are lured in by the sweet fragrance of this particular type of plant.
The scientific name for the species commonly known as “asclepias perennis” is “Asclepias perennis”.
Plant variety that lives for more than two years and typically blooms during a specific season.
The plant needs sunlight exposure ranging from full sun to partial shade.
Height of the object is between 2 to 3 feet.
Aquatic milkweed or white swamp milkweed is a type of plant that is native to marshy areas in the southern United States. It is classified as a small to medium-sized variety and can be found in hardiness zones 6-10. The plant produces lightly fragrant, white flowers in umbels during late spring which are important for monarchs returning from their winter migration. Bees and butterflies are attracted to these flowers as they are a great source of nectar. Aquatic milkweed is evergreen which makes it crucial for overwintering butterflies in Florida. The plant has purple-to-green stems with slender leaves and blooms that can have a pink cast in certain cases. Unlike most milkweed species, the seeds of aquatic milkweed are winged which allows them to float on water. This plant is highly adaptable to damp soil environments.
This particular kind showcases petite clusters of white-pink blossoms that are quite attractive to butterflies.
Do you know the scientific name for a particular plant species? Well, the botanical name for a type of plant known as “Asclepias angustifolia” can be quite a mouthful.
Type of Plant: Perennial
The plant needs to be exposed to sunlight for its growth and development, specifically it requires full sun.
How tall is it?
It measures around 2-3 feet in height.
Arizona milkweed is a plant species that can be found exclusively in southern Arizona and it is a native and endemic to the area. This shrubby plant grows in clumps and favors dry, rocky soil and high elevations. It is commonly seen in mountainous and woodland areas. The stems of this plant are tall and unbranched, while the leaves are thin and lanceolate. The density of the leaves can vary. The flowers of the Arizona milkweed are small and can range from white to pink. They appear in clusters on top of the thin stems. The outer petals have slight reflexes, and they have horns that extend beyond the hoods. The Arizona milkweed is an important species for the survival of monarch butterflies as it serves as a food source for carpenter bees.
The broadleaf milkweed boasts of its large leaves and beautiful creamy white flowers. Unfortunately, these flowers are also toxic to animals and should be approached with caution.
The scientific name of a particular plant is Asclepias latifolia.
Plant variety that grows for several years without the need for replanting is called perennial.
One of the most important needs for a plant to thrive is sunlight. Some plants require full sun exposure to properly grow and develop. This means they need to be placed in an area where they receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. Providing these conditions ensures that the plant receives the necessary amount of energy for photosynthesis, which is crucial for its survival and growth. So, if you’re planning to grow full sun loving plants, make sure to place them in a location with adequate sunlight exposure.
The measurement of how tall something is, commonly referred to as height, can range between 2 to 3 feet.
This species is able to grow in hardiness zones 5-9 and is originally from the Great Plains to the West Coast. It stands out from other plants due to its unique leaf structure which forms a loose rosette around the main stem. The leaves are broad, elliptical and can grow quite large near the stem’s base. The flower clusters are also distinct as they are partially covered by the upward-facing leaves. The flowers themselves are creamy white to pale green with petals and sepals that reflect away from the hoods. While this species may attract grazing animals, it is important to note that it is highly toxic to them and to pets as well, similar to all milkweed species.
The butterfly milkweed, a native plant, is characterized by its sturdy stems and vibrant orange blossoms. It has a compact size.
The scientific name for the plant commonly known as “Butterfly Weed” is Asclepias tuberosa.
Type of plant that grows back year after year is known as perennial.
How much sun does a plant need? It needs full sun.
How tall is it?
The plant’s height ranges from 1 to 2 feet.
Butterfly milkweed is a smaller variety that grows up to two feet tall and is known for its large, stiff, and lanceolate leaves. The plant produces umbels of bright orange flowers that bloom all summer, making it an important food source for butterflies. Unlike most milkweed species, this plant does not produce sticky, white sap. It is native to most of the United States and Canada and can thrive in hardiness zones 3-9. Butterfly milkweed prefers full sun and well-drained soil and is virtually pest and disease-free. Furthermore, hummingbirds and bees are also attracted to this species. Moreover, it can also be used as a cut flower because of its long vase life.
The milkweed species, known for its ability to withstand drought, is of utmost importance in the state of California as it provides essential support to pollinators.
The scientific name for a particular plant is Asclepias californica.
Type of plant that can live for more than two years and usually flowers annually.
Amount of sunlight needed: complete exposure to sunlight.
Height is recorded as being 3 feet.
California is home to several species of milkweed, including the endemic California milkweed. This plant can be found in the southern part of the state and can withstand drought due to its hardiness. Its foliage is covered in soft hairs that provide protection from intense sun exposure. California milkweed typically grows in sandy and clay-heavy soils on hillsides. The plant produces many flowers that are highly attractive to butterflies. These flower clusters hang down and have pink bulbous anthers with reflexed sepals. The leaves of this species are larger than most other milkweed species.
Butterflies, hummingbirds, and garden enthusiasts all adore this popular plant for its captivating blooms and the way it grows.
The scientific term for common milkweed is Asclepias syriaca.
Type of plant that grows and blooms year after year, known as a perennial.
Amount of Sunlight Needed
Sunlight requirements range from full sun to partial shade.
How tall is it?
The height ranges from 3 to 5 feet.
Common milkweed is a plant that is easily accessible and extensively grown in most parts of the country, particularly hardiness zones 3-8. It is a favorite among butterflies and hummingbirds and cherished by gardeners for its beauty. The plant has an erect growth pattern, with ovate leaves and spreads through underground rhizomes. Its pink ball-shaped flower umbels are almost spherical and sit atop branching green stems. Though small, the flowers are incredibly fragrant with reflexed petals. This species is exceptional at colonizing and propagates freely through seeds carried by the wind.
This particular type of flora thrives in arid and scorching environments that have infertile soil.
The scientific name of a certain plant is Asclepias erosa.
What kind of plant is it? It’s a perennial.
How much sun do plants need? They require full sun.
What is the height range for this object? It can be between 2 to 6 feet.
The plant known as desert milkweed thrives in dry and hot environments with sandy soil. This species grows best in hardiness zones 4-11, and it may seem strange that it needs such harsh conditions to survive. However, the fine white hairs covering the tall plant protect it from the sun’s intense heat while helping it retain moisture. The foliage is usually green but can appear silver or grey depending on the amount of hair on each leaf. The leaves themselves are mid-sized and shaped like a lance or oval. The plant produces clusters of flowers that are primarily white and green and have a reflexed crown.
Heartleaf milkweed is a plant that boasts striking heart-shaped leaves that grow on purple stems. Its stunning appearance is further enhanced by the presence of pale pink flowers with sepals in deep pink-purple hues.
The scientific name for a type of plant is Asclepias cordifolia.
Type of plant: Perennial.
The plant needs exposure to sunlight ranging from full sun to partial shade.
Approximate vertical measurement
1 to 2 feet
The plant species discussed here belongs to the popular ornamental milkweed family and has a limited native range in California, Oregon, and Nevada states of the US. It is known for its attractive appearance and is commonly grown in hardiness zones 7-10. The plant is called Heartleaf Milkweed due to its large and heart-shaped leaves that grow opposite to each other on purple stems. The leaves can also have a purple hue. The flowers of this plant hang down from the top of the stems and have deep pink-purple sepals that open up to small pale pink flowers. This low-growing species is usually found in rocky areas of woodlands and forests and blooms in its second year in spring and summer.
The narrowleaf milkweed is a superb plant choice for those who want to attract butterflies to their garden. Its beautiful and sizable lavender and white flowers are packed with nectar, making them highly appealing to these winged insects.
The scientific name assigned to a particular plant is known as its botanical name. For instance, Asclepias fascicularis is the botanical name of a specific plant.
Type of Plant: Perennial
The plant needs to be exposed to complete sunlight. Full sun is necessary for its growth.
Height: 1 to 3 feet.
The Western United States is home to a variety of butterfly species, and one plant that is particularly important for their survival is the narrowleaf milkweed. This versatile plant is able to grow and thrive in a range of soil types, water conditions, and temperatures, making it an excellent choice for those looking to create a butterfly-friendly garden.
In addition to being adaptable, narrowleaf milkweed is also fast-growing and easy to establish, which means that it can quickly provide a valuable food source for migrating monarchs. The plant features large clusters of flowers that are upright on narrow stems and have long, pointed leaves. These star-shaped blooms come in shades of lavender and white and are known for producing a lot of nectar, making them a popular choice for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds alike.
Wearing a lovely, droopy look, the poke milkweed plant can grow and flourish in various types of soil.
The scientific name for this plant is Asclepias exaltata.
Type of plant: Perennial.
Amount of sunlight needed:
Partial sun
The vertical measurement from the ground to the highest point of an object ranges from 2 to 6 feet.
Poke Milkweed is a plant species that has a unique and beautiful weeping appearance. It has large, attractive leaves that grow on both sides of its unbranched stem. This plant species is not particular about soil types and can thrive in sandy soils with varying pH levels. As long as the soil has good drainage, poke milkweed can grow happily. The flowers of this plant species have pedicels that hang down like tiny shooting stars. The light green petals of the flower fold backwards, revealing white hoods. Poke Milkweed’s flowers are noteworthy not only for their weeping quality but also because they contain a considerable amount of nectar and have a sweet yet pungent aroma. It is suitable for growing in hardiness zones 3-7.
The prairie milkweed is a plant that is easy to cultivate in your garden. It has an appealing look with smooth leaves and lovely pink flowers that give off a pleasant fragrance.
The scientific name of a plant species is known as its botanical name. For instance, the botanical name of the species commonly known as Sullivant’s milkweed is Asclepias sullivantii.
Type of plant that grows back each year is called a perennial.
Sunlight needs
Require exposure to direct sunlight
Height of the object ranges from 2 to 3 feet.
This plant thrives in hardiness zones 4-7 and prefers full sun and moist, nutrient-rich soil. Unlike common milkweed, it spreads through rhizomes but is not as invasive, making it an excellent choice for gardens. Prairie milkweed looks similar to common milkweed and shares many characteristics. It has strong stems that often branch at the upper end and smooth, elliptical leaves with a central vein that can be pink, white, or green. The fragrant flowers are deep orchid pink to lavender and attract a lot of insects, including the milkweed leaf-miner fly, which uses it as a host plant.
This particular kind of milkweed is an exceptional type of plant that thrives in desert environments. It has firm stems that produce leaves only when it rains.
The scientific name for Asclepias subulata is botanical name.
Plant variety that lives for more than two years is called a perennial.
Sunlight needs
Require ample sunlight
The measurement of the height is 9 feet.
Rush milkweed is a plant that thrives in hardiness zones 9-11, particularly in desert regions. It has distinct characteristics, such as having multiple stiff stems rising from its crown that do not bear leaves except during rainy seasons. The flowers of this milkweed species are light yellow to white and form terminal clusters that produce smooth seed pods. What makes it even more vital to maintain is that it is a larval food for queen butterflies. Rush milkweed is one of the few evergreen varieties of milkweed, making it essential for overwintering pollinators. Its exceptional height also adds to its uniqueness.
The showy milkweed plant boasts of its blue-green leaves and charming pink and white star-shaped flowers that bloom in round clusters.
The scientific name for a particular plant is Asclepias speciosa.
Type of plant
Perennial
Amount of sunlight needed
Require full exposure to sunlight
What is the height range for this plant?
Answer: The plant’s height typically falls between 1 to 3 feet.
This species of milkweed is native to the central and western United States and is highly ornamental. It can be a great addition to a garden that features flowers or butterflies as it has a large range. The plant usually grows up to 1-3 feet tall and has lovely blue-green foliage that gives it a pretty look. Its flowers are also stunning as they are star-shaped and come in small pink and white clusters at the top of tall stems. The buds are dusty pink and the blooms are fragrant, mostly white, and have pink sepals that give off a beautiful pink glow.
During the summer and fall months, this species flaunts beautiful pink blossoms that add to its already striking appearance due to its height.
The scientific name for the plant commonly known as Swamp Milkweed is Asclepias incarnata.
Type of plant: Perennial.
Sunlight needs
Require complete exposure to sunlight
How tall are you?
Around 4 to 5 feet.
Swamp milkweed is a crucial plant species that is naturally found in most parts of the United States. Its blooming period ranges from summer to fall, which coincides with the migration of monarch butterflies for winter. Aside from its significance, swamp milkweed is also an attractive and tall variety of milkweed that can grow in hardiness zones 3-11. It is characterized by upright stems with olive green, lanceolate leaves that have pink tinges. At the top of these stems, clusters of bright pink flowers bloom for a long duration. Even the seed pods produced by this species are appealing to butterflies, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who want to attract them. It is also able to withstand cold and hot temperatures, meaning it can thrive in a wide range of zones. All of these features make swamp milkweed a beautiful and functional addition to any garden.
The tall green milkweed produces flower clusters that extend throughout its stems, providing ample room for butterflies to carry out pollination.
The scientific name for a plant is known as its botanical name. One example of a botanical name is Asclepias hirtella.
Type of Plant: Perennial.
Amount of sunlight needed:
Requires exposure to full sun or partial shade.
4 feet tall
If you’re looking for a plant that will attract butterflies, the Tall Green Milkweed might be just what you need. This species is visually striking and can be found in hardiness zones 4 through 9. One of its unique features is that flowers grow intermittently along the tall stems, instead of just at the top like many other plants do.
Velvetleaf milkweed is a crucial plant for monarch butterflies flying through Florida as it is the only milkweed species that can withstand saltwater.
The scientific name for a particular plant is Asclepias tomentosa.
Type of plant that persists for multiple years is known as a perennial.
The plant needs to be placed in an area where it can receive full sunlight.
Height: 3 feet.
The hardiness zones 8-10 have a critical milkweed species for the monarch butterflies in Florida, known as the velvetleaf milkweed. During October and November, thousands of monarch butterflies stop in the coastal panhandle of Florida before migrating to Central Mexico where they overwinter. It’s an impressive sight for butterfly enthusiasts. This milkweed species is essential because it’s the only one that can survive in saltwater environments. The plant has sturdy stems with stiff leaves that have a flocked texture. The flower clusters grow on top of these stems and are typically pale green with purple accents. Unfortunately, this species is not available commercially and is only found in Northern Florida.
White milkweed is a type of plant that has flowers with varied colors and deep green leaves. Its sweet-smelling nectar is very attractive to various pollinators.
The scientific name of a plant is known as its botanical name. For instance, Asclepias variegata is the botanical name of a particular plant species.
Type of plant: Perennial.
The level of sunlight that a plant needs is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the right location for it. Some plants require full exposure to the sun, while others prefer partial shade. When it comes to the latter, it means that the plant should be placed in an area where it can receive some sunlight but not too much. This condition is essential for the plant’s health and proper growth. So, if you have a plant that has partial shade requirements, make sure to find a spot where it can get the right amount of sunlight it needs.
The vertical measurement of an object is typically between one to three feet.
The white milkweed, also known as the redring milkweed, can be found in the Eastern US coast and ranges inland to Texas and Illinois. Despite its name, the word “variegata” in its scientific name refers to its flowers rather than its leaves. This species is known for being very hardy and can tolerate drought well. Unlike most of its relatives, it prefers partial shade instead of full sun. The plant has deep green foliage that contrasts strikingly with its milky white flowers. Its flowers have a deep purple interior that is strongly aromatic, attracting various pollinators with their ample nectar supply.
The whorled milkweed is a plant that grows in colonies, characterized by its delicate leaves and thriving ability in dry and rocky soil. Its lacy white flower umbels are also quite eye-catching.
The scientific name of Asclepias verticillata is botanical nomenclature.
Type of plant
Perennial
Needs for sunlight
Require exposure to full sun or partial shade.
The measurement of how tall something is can be expressed as 1-2 feet.
Whorled milkweed is a plant that belongs to hardiness zones 3-9. This type of milkweed is known for its late-blooming flowers and its ability to form small colonies of delicate foliage and flowers. The leaves of this plant are thin and needle-like and they whorl around a central stem in a loose rosette, hence the nickname. Whorled milkweed thrives in dry, rocky, and sandy soil types. Its foliage has a beautiful texture that adds a lovely visual appeal to the landscape. Another striking feature of this plant is its green pods that stand tall from the top of the stems. Before these pods form, the blooms are arranged in white, lacy umbels of tiny, delicate flowers.
This particular type of plant has a fuzzy appearance because it is covered in tiny, soft white hairs.
The scientific name for a particular plant is Asclepias eriocarpa.
Type of plant that lasts for more than two years is called a perennial.
The plants need exposure to sunlight of varying degrees depending on the species. Some require full sun exposure while others can grow with partial shade.
How tall is it?
It grows to a height of 2-4 feet.
This particular milkweed is known for its soft coating of fine white hairs, which covers both its leaves and pods giving them a grayish-green appearance. However, the hairs on the pods are longer than those on the leaves. It can be grown in hardiness zones 4-9 and prefers well-drained soil and a dry environment. This variety has the ability to tolerate different soil types. The flower clusters of this plant contain numerous small cream-colored flowers, with petals that fold backward, while the hoods stand out beyond them. These flowers have a slight waxy scent and bloom from spring through fall, making them a great addition to any butterfly or flower garden.
Zizotes milkweed is an excellent choice for luring butterflies to your garden, particularly if you reside in an arid region.
The scientific name for a specific type of plant is known as Asclepias oenotheroides.
Type of Plant: Perennial.
One of the key factors for a plant’s healthy growth is sunlight. It is important to note that some plants require full sun exposure to thrive.
How tall is it?
It stands at a height of 1 to 1 and a half feet.
This particular plant, which thrives in hardiness zones 7-9, is not commonly spotted in the wild or otherwise. Despite that, it is noteworthy due to its fun name and unique characteristics. As a small plant, it stays close to the ground and boasts a foliage denser than most milkweeds, with a silvery appearance. Its flowers are also distinct, forming close to the stem and between leaves rather than in an independent cluster. The blooms have a pale green color and a hood that extends beyond the stigma and flares at the ends. This plant does well in dry climates, but it will produce more leaves and flowers after rainfall.
This particular kind poses a threat to the monarch butterflies because it is not originally from their habitat, and it could possibly transmit parasites as well as disrupt their reproductive cycle.
The scientific name for a specific plant is Asclepias curassavica.
Type of plant that lasts for more than two years is known as a perennial.
The plant needs to be exposed to direct sunlight to thrive. It requires full sun exposure.
Height measurement ranges from 3 to 5 feet.
The hardiness zones 8-11 are commonly infiltrated by the tropical milkweed, a plant that can be found in many nurseries across the country, except in California where it is banned. Although this plant is recognizable as the most familiar type of milkweed, it is not native to the United States and does not provide sufficient benefits to monarchs during their migration. Additionally, tropical milkweed is particularly harmful in evergreen climates, as it hosts a parasite called Ophryocystis Elektroscirrha. This parasite reproduces and harms the monarch population, making it a less than ideal choice for North American gardens. Furthermore, in fall seasons, it can interfere with the reproductive cycles of monarchs. The United States has 73 native species of milkweed plants that can suit every garden. These plants offer great nectar production, which helps sustain the populations of pollinating insects. Their importance as larval food for monarchs is critical, and preserving this plant is vital to the survival of this iconic butterfly species.
