Found in upland woods to rich woodland openings, Poke Milkweed thrives in dappled to full shade. It has oval leaves, growing opposite on stems that can reach five feet, considerably taller than other milkweed species. Large clusters of white to cream, tinted with purple and green, flowers droop elegantly on slender stalks.
The foliage and flowers provide a source of food for many insects including Monarch butterflies, the larvae of the moths the Unexpected Cycnia, and the Delicate Cycnia. Rabbits also enjoy making a snack of the foliage of Poke Milkweed. Though long lived, this species is not aggressive. Poke Milkweed can sometimes hybridize with Common Milkweed when plants are located in very close proximity.
Our experience is, from transplants, this Milkweed species can show stress the first year and may go into dormancy early; yellow, dropping leaves after transplant can mean there is too much light or the soil is too dry, but the plant can adapt and show progress the next year.
The foliage and flowers provide a source of food for many insects including Monarch butterflies, the larvae of the moths the Unexpected Cycnia, and the Delicate Cycnia. Rabbits also enjoy making a snack of the foliage of Poke Milkweed. Though long lived, this species is not aggressive. Poke Milkweed can sometimes hybridize with Common Milkweed when plants are located in very close proximity.
Our experience is, from transplants, this Milkweed species can show stress the first year and may go into dormancy early; yellow, dropping leaves after transplant can mean there is too much light or the soil is too dry, but the plant can adapt and show progress the next year.
