Despite its name, Red Milkweed actually has pink blooms. It grows in swampy areas and would be a good choice for a bog garden. This milkweed is somewhat rare in the wild and only has populations in Texas, Mississippi, Florida, and South and North Carolina. It is considered rare in Louisiana, Alabama, and Virginia and is functionally extinct in Georgia. If you purchase Red Milkweed, make sure it is from a trustworthy seller and opt for seeds over live plants, to avoid potentially endangering the wild population.

Care requirements:

Light requirements: Full Sun-Part Shade

Water requirements: Medium-High

Soil requirements: Medium-Wet, well-drained

Bloom time: June-July

Bloom color: Pink

Height: 1.5-3 feet

Width: 1-3 feet

USDA Zone: 4-9

Larval host: Monarch butterfly

Other notes: Red Milkweed is not resistant to drought and needs to be kept consistently moist. This milkweed can be difficult to find in the nursery trade; Swamp Milkweed is a good alternative.

Do you have Red 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!