White Swamp Milkweed, unlike other milkweed species, has winged seeds designed to float on water, which are dispersed by flooding events. Not to be confused with Swamp Milkweed, White Swamp Milkweed is also known as aquatic milkweed, and it can survive much wetter conditions than Swamp Milkweed, including almost complete submersion. It makes a great option for rain gardens or pond margins.

Care requirements:

Light requirements: Full Sun-Part Shade

Water requirements: Medium-High

Soil requirements: Moist-Wet, well-drained

Bloom time: May-July

Bloom color: White

Height: 1-3 feet

Width: 1-2 feet

USDA Zone: 6-10

Larval host: Monarch, Queen butterflies

Other notes: It can tolerate short periods of drought, but in general soil should be kept moist and not allowed to dry out. This milkweed has a range that extends along the Mississippi River up into Illinois and Indiana but is most common in the gulf cost Southeastern states, especially Florida. White Swamp Milkweed has a fairly long bloom time, with some reports stating that it continues to bloom into the Fall. May be evergreen, especially in the more Southern parts of its range.

Do you have White Swamp Milkweed growing in your garden? Do you have any tips or tricks for growing it you would like to share? Do you know of any Southeastern nurseries that regularly stock it? Let us know in the comments!