We have three separate small colonies in the patio garden which will hopefully attract more temporary residents like Pete (pictured). The flower stems grow up to 4′ tall and spring time brings small pink and white flowers that are a nectar source for a number of butterfly species. Narrow Leaf Milkweed has modest water requirements and performs well in full sun. Small colonies are formed as the plant spreads by underground stems called “rhizomes”.

Narrow Leaf Milkweed also attracts large numbers of golden colored aphids, commonly known as Milkweed Aphids. They don’t appear to do much damage to the plant and the Monarch caterpillars don’t mind them much either. As milkweed is poisonous, predators suffer the same ill effects eating the aphids as they do eating the caterpillars, hence there are not many predators.

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