Poke Milkweed (Asclepias exaltata)

A tall woodland species of milkweed with unusual flowers. Long lived, but not and aggressive spreader. Perfect for adding a monarch host plants to woods edges or bright understory! Poke milkweed’s tall, generally unbranched habit means it prefers sheltered areas where it won’t be blown over. This species is prone to browsing- plants will need protection for at least the first year!

Light: Part Sun/Shade

Soil Moisture: Mesic, Dry Mesic

Soil Type: Humus, Loam, Sandy Loam

Height: 2’-6’

Bloom Color: White

Bloom Time: Jun-Jul

Root Type: Taproot

Notable Wildlife Interactions: Flowers are more specialized than other species of milkweed, and attract mainly bumblebees and butterflies. As with other milkweeds, it host monarch butterflies and a few species of beetle and aphid.