Common Milkweed
The primary host plant of the monarch butterfly. Monarchs lay eggs on milkweed species exclusively. This species is common throughout most of the eastern U.S. and is also a great pollinator plant for other species. Populations of common milkweed have been declining for several decades in part due to land use changes and prevalence of herbicide use. Common milkweed blooms from late spring to fall in many areas and flower color can range from light to dark pink. Plants spread by rhizomes and seed, which is produced in pods and dispersed by wind. Common milkweed is the easiest milkweed species to establish from seed.
- Planting date: Dormant seeding, November – February
- Stratification of 30 days increases germination
- Height: 24-60 inches tall
- Moisture: Average
- Sun Exposure: Full
- Planting Rate: 1.5 pounds per acre in mixes, 10 pounds per acre alone
