Asclepias incarnata Cinderella

Swamp Milkweed

June Is Perennial Month

Swamp Milkweed have small, curiously shaped blooms that appear in dense clusters. These plants provide nourishment for Monarch butterflies through all their life stages and are essential for their survival.

Asclepias incarnata ‘Cinderella’, commonly known as Swamp Milkweed, is a highly popular, easy-care native perennial. Celebrated for its stunning clusters of vanilla-scented, pale to vibrant rose-pink flowers, it is a crucial nectar source for butterflies and the primary host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars. The vanilla-scented flowers last well in water and attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Plants bloom best in full sun but can tolerate a bit of shade. They grow naturally in wet places along streams and ponds. Swamp Milkweed will grow in heavy, wet soil or in good garden soil and are perfect for rain gardens. Plants are deer-resistant and heat-tolerant, too.

It typically grows 3-4′ tall (less frequently to 5′) on branching stems. Small, fragrant, pink to mauve flowers (1/4″ wide), each with five reflexed petals and an elevated central crown, appear in tight clusters (umbels) at the stem ends in summer. Flowers are uncommonly white. Narrow, lance-shaped, taper-pointed leaves are 3-6″ long. Like all milkweeds, stems and leaves exude milky sap when cut. Flowers are followed by attractive seed pods (to 4″ long) which split open when ripe releasing silky-haired seeds easily carried by the wind. Flowers are very attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds as a nectar source.

Key Characteristics of Asclepias incarnata Cinderella

  • Appearance: Produces dense, airy spikes with creamy yellow, sometimes peach-toned flowers.
  • Foliage: Medium to dark green with a minty, spicy fragrance.
  • Hardiness & Size: Hardy in zones 4–9, growing 14–18 inches in height and width.
  • Conditions: Requires full sun (6+ hours) and excellent, well-drained soil; does not tolerate wet, heavy clay, especially in winter.
  • Maintenance: Drought-tolerant once established, deer-resistant, and low-maintenance.
Swamp Milkweed will grow in heavy, wet soil or in good garden soil and are perfect for rain gardens. Plants are deer-resistant and heat-tolerant, too.
  • Pollinator Garden: Strongly attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
  • Containers & Borders: Its compact, upright habit makes it ideal for mixed borders and patio containers.

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