Common Milkweed
Asclepias syriaca
Last reviewed: June 2026
Common Milkweed is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, CT, DE, IA and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Common milkweed is a tall native perennial that produces clusters of fragrant pink to purple flowers in summer. It spreads by underground rhizomes and can form colonies over time, making it better suited for naturalized areas than formal gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common Milkweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Spreads aggressively and can look weedy
- Tall growth may appear unkempt in formal settings
- Pods release fluffy seeds that can blow around
Wildlife value
Host plant for monarch butterfly.
This plant is essential for monarch butterflies, serving as their primary larval host plant. The flowers attract a wide variety of bees, butterflies, and moths throughout the summer blooming period.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Common Milkweed and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.