Whorled Milkweed

(Asclepias verticillata)

Whorled Milkweed (Asclepias verticillata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Asclepias verticillata, commonly known as whorled milkweed, eastern whorled milkweed, or horsetail milkweed, is a perennial herb that is native to a wide range of habitats in eastern and central North America, including glades, dry prairies, and open woodlands, as well as disturbed areas such as pastures, fields, and roadsides. It is also found in parts of western Canada and the United States. This species typically grows to a height of 6 inches to 3 feet tall and features a single stem. The leaves are narrow and linear, arranged in whorls around the stem, which is the origin of its specific epithet ’verticillata’. From June to September, it produces an umbel of 7–20 fragrant, greenish-white flowers that are attractive to a variety of pollinators, especially butterflies.

Whorled milkweed is valued for its ability to attract and support butterflies, including the monarch butterfly, which uses milkweed as a host plant for its larvae. It is often used in native plant gardens, butterfly gardens, and restoration projects. This milkweed is relatively low maintenance, tolerating drought and poor soil conditions. It prefers full sun to part shade and can adapt to soils with slow drainage. While it is not aggressive, it can spread through rhizomes and self-seeding, which should be considered when planting in small garden spaces.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2.5 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

native to a wide range of habitats in eastern and central North America, including glades, dry prairies, and open woodlands, as well as disturbed areas such as pastures, fields, and roadsides

Other Names

Common Names: Horsetail Milkweed, Eastern Whorled Milkweed, Asclépiade Verticillée

Scientific Names: , Asclepias verticillata, Asclepias galioides, Asclepias parviflora, Asclepias verticillata var. galioides, Asclepias verticillata var. leptophylla,

GBIF Accepted Name: Asclepias verticillata L.