Pink flowers bloom atop strong stems, 2-4′ tall with long narrow leaves.  Flowers bloom in June through October.   Interesting seedpods in fall; fun for kids and useful for decorating. Doesn’t need a swamp-it grows in moist perennial beds/pollinator gardens, although its natural habitat is usually wet, rich, heavy soils and pond edges.  Appreciates full sun but can grow partial shade. Native to Massachusetts.

Size: 4″ pots

Special attention has been brought to the milkweeds because of their specialist association with the monarch butterfly caterpillars as part of efforts to protect monarch butterflies. Attracts bees, butterflies and hummingbirds – an amazing array of pollinators. On Dr. RJ Gegear’s list of plants for at risk insects including native bees.  This plant is toxic and should be avoided where you have grazing animals.

_{Images: Arthur Haines & Bill Cullina via GoBotany/Native Plant Trust.}