With fragrant, nectar-rich flowers, it's no wonder pollinators find 'Ice Ballet' Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) irresistible! Clusters of bright white flowers bloom on tall, upright stems, like a beacon for native pollinators. Flowers are followed by appealing seed pods in the fall that are filled with fluffy, wind-dispersed seeds. The blooms and pods are excellent in cut arrangements, but be aware of the toxic milky sap it exudes when cut.
Milkweeds, including 'Ice Ballet' Swamp Milkweed, are essential for the Monarch lifecycle. Their relationship includes more than just swapping nectar for pollination. Caterpillars exclusively feed on their leaves, which are filled with cardenolides. Cardenolides are stored in the bodies of Monarch caterpillars and butterflies as a defense against predators. Without Milkweed, we wouldn't have Monarchs!
Vital details:
Plant size: 3-4' tall x 1.5-3' wide
Light: full sun (6+ hrs/day)
Water: Dry to medium moisture
Hardiness: USDA zones 3-9 (Find your hardiness zone)
Pollinator value: attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, and is the host plant for Monarchs
Notable features: fragrant, great cut flowers, long-blooming, deer resistant, multiple seasons of interest, low maintenance
Pot size: one quart
Plant name: Asclepias incarnata 'Ice Ballet'