Habitat: Native to wet sites but adapts to drier sites in moist clay or loam soils. Mid - late summer bloom, pink/mauve flowers. Does very well in average garden soil, particularly with some afternoon shade; tolerates heavy clay soils due to fibrous root structure. Tends to flop. Hard to move because of its deep taproot. Will inevitably have aphids, not usually harmful
Wildlife value: It is the larval host plant for Monarch larvae. Adult Monarch butterflies feed on nectar from all species of milkweeds. Its flowers are attractive to pollinators.
Poisonous to Humans
Poison Severity: Low
Poison Symptoms: Can cause stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, weakness, lethargy, and confusion if eaten in quantity. Milky sap can cause contact dermatitis and eye irritation
Causes Contact Dermatitis: Yes