Asclepias incarnata ‘Cinderella’ (Swamp Milkweed)

Asclepias incarnata ‘Cinderella’ (Swamp Milkweed) is an upright, clump-forming perennial prized for its large clusters of vanilla-scented, rose-pink flowers. Blooming for weeks from midsummer into early fall, the flowers provide abundant nectar for bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.

Its ecological value goes well beyond nectar. The foliage serves as a larval host plant for both Monarch and Queen butterflies, whose caterpillars feed on milkweed leaves. This makes ‘Cinderella’ especially valuable in butterfly gardens designed to support the complete life cycle rather than simply attract visiting adults.

The fragrant flower clusters rise above sturdy, branching stems clothed in narrow, lance-shaped leaves. After flowering, elongated seed pods develop and often persist into fall and winter. When mature, they split open to release seeds attached to silky, silvery-white hairs, adding ornamental interest and providing attractive material for dried arrangements.

With its showy flowers, long bloom season, wildlife value, and preference for moist soil, ‘Cinderella’ is an excellent choice for pollinator borders, rain gardens, wet meadows, cottage gardens, and naturalistic plantings.

• Grows in sturdy, upright clumps about 3-5 ft. tall (90-150 cm) and 1-3 ft. wide (30-90 cm).
• Thrives in full sun and medium to wet soils, while tolerating average garden soils that do not become excessively dry.
• Low maintenance and generally trouble-free once established.
• Excellent for sunny borders, cottage gardens, butterfly gardens, wet meadows, rain gardens, bog gardens, and plantings near ponds and streams.
• Its flowers attract adult butterflies and other pollinators, while its foliage feeds Monarch and Queen caterpillars.
• Best left undisturbed once established, as milkweeds develop substantial perennial root systems.
• Stems exude a milky sap when cut.
• Contains toxic compounds and should not be ingested by people or pets. Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses.
• The species Asclepias incarnata is native to North America.