Adored for its dainty white flowers and finely textured foliage, Whorled Milkweed, Asclepias verticillata, adds lots of texture and movement to the garden. Expect lots of movement from pollinators and Monarch butterflies as well – as its clusters of fragrant flowers attract insects from all around.

Its beautifully textured long needle-like leaves turn a bright yellowish orange in fall. A Missouri native perennial, it spreads by seed and rhizomes, but is not invasive. Whorled Milkweed is an important food source for Monarch butterflies as their caterpillars exclusively feed on Milkweeds in Missouri.

Easily grown in sunny areas, plants prefer full sun, at least 6 hours a day, and well-drained soil. These tough plants tolerate drought and high heat and humidity.