Ascelpias incarnata grows best in moist to wet organic soils, and tolerates drier conditions. Though it is perfectly cold-hardy in the north, mulching plants in winter will help prevent frost-heaving. Plants have deep taproots and are best left undisturbed once established. In spring, trim back last year's growth, new foliage emerges a little later than other perennials. Once established, Swamp Milkweed requires little care.

Heavily laden with nectar and pollen, flowers are attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects. Gather Asclepias all summer; long stems are wonderful for cutting and long-lasting. Sear cut stems ends over a flame to stop the milky sap from leaking out. Milkweed seed pods open to reveal seeds with long, silvery-white, silky hairs; great to use in dried flower arrangements.

Attributes: bog plant, border plants, cut flower or foliage, dried flower or seed heads, fragrant flowers or foliage, mass planting. Deer and resistant. Ascelpias incarnata is native to North America.