ASCLEPIAS VERTICILLATA / WHORLED MILKWEED

ASCLEPIAS VERTICILLATA / WHORLED MILKWEED

A Delicate, Pollinator-Friendly Perennial for Sunny Gardens

Asclepias verticillata, commonly known as Whorled Milkweed, is a unique and elegant perennial that thrives in sunny, well-drained environments. It features slender, narrow leaves that grow in whorls around the stem, creating a distinctive appearance. In mid to late summer, it produces clusters of small, white to pale green flowers that attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This drought-tolerant plant is ideal for meadows, wildflower gardens, and xeriscaping, offering both beauty and ecological benefits.

Why Choose Whorled Milkweed?

• Pollinator Magnet: A valuable nectar source for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.

• Unique Foliage: Narrow, whorled leaves provide a distinctive, airy texture to the landscape.

• Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in dry conditions once established, making it ideal for low-water gardens.

• Easy to Grow: Low-maintenance and adaptable to a variety of growing conditions.

Key Features

• Whorled Leaves: Narrow, long leaves that grow in a spiral around the stem, adding unique texture to the garden.

• Small White to Green Flowers: Clusters of delicate, fragrant flowers bloom in mid to late summer, attracting pollinators.

• Upright Growth: Grows 2–3 feet tall, perfect for adding vertical interest to garden beds and borders.

• Pollinator Friendly: Essential nectar for monarch butterflies and other beneficial insects.

Specifications

• Plant Size: Typically grows 2–3 feet tall and 12–18 inches wide.

• Hardiness: USDA Zones 4–9, adaptable to various climates.

• Sunlight: Prefers full sun for optimal growth and flowering.

• Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; drought-tolerant once established.

Ideal Uses

• Pollinator Gardens: A great addition to butterfly and bee-friendly gardens.

• Meadows & Wildflower Gardens: Adds an elegant, airy texture to naturalized spaces and native plant gardens.

• Xeriscaping: Perfect for dry, sunny areas with low-water requirements.

• Borders & Edging: Works well in the middle or back of garden beds to provide height and attract pollinators.

Asclepias verticillata, or Whorled Milkweed, is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly perennial. Its distinctive whorled foliage, delicate flowers, and drought tolerance make it a valuable addition to any sunny garden or meadow, offering both beauty and ecological benefits.

NATIVE TO ONTARIO