Milkweed Plant is an easy-to-grow plant that is essential for many butterfly gardens. Several characteristics that appeal to gardeners and butterfly watchers alike include its size, flowering time, sturdiness, and natural attraction for butterflies. They are typically found in Zones 3 to 9. It enjoys full sun but can deal with a bit of shade here and there.
Milkweed Plants Can Get Up To 5 Feet High
They usually appear in bunches of strong green stalks that could reach up to 5 feet high but typically 2 to 4 feet. Thanks to the sturdy nature of these stems, there is no need to prop them up; they will stand on their own. The leaves are various shades of green, thick and robust. They grow to about 6 to 8 inches long and 2 to 4 inches wide. It is ideal for planting to place these about 18 inches apart. Additionally, this flower requires no fertilizers and does well in less-than-perfect soil.
Their flower pods grow from the top of the flower and are usually found in small groups, producing many flowers at once. The flowers grow to about .75 inches and .4 inches wide. They are generally light to dark pink and let off a lovely, sweet scent.
The Milkweed Plant Grows Fruit Pods
Fruit pods also grow on Milkweed plants. They are about 4 inches long and shaped like a sphere, with little nubs growing on them. The pods start out green and, as they mature, turn brown. At this stage, they can be used for flower arrangements. Once they dry completely, they will split open. Many seeds can be taken from one pod.
Milkweed Plant Is a Vital Butterfly Garden Plant
Finally, the Milkweed plant is an ideal and vital flower for Monarch Butterflies. Not only do they eat the leaves, but they also form their chrysalis and mature and hatch on the very same flower.
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