
Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet
Asclepias incarnata 'Ice Ballet'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist to wet soil
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and most animals if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Asclepias incarnata, commonly known as Swamp Milkweed, is a perennial herb featuring tall, slender stems with clusters of pink to mauve, star-shaped flowers and lance-shaped green foliage that attracts pollinators. The 'Ice Ballet' cultivar is distinguished by its striking white flowers and compact growth habit, making it an elegant choice for cultivated borders and butterfly gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil with gentle pressure.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Plant in full sun for best flowering.
- Water weekly during dry spells, especially in first year.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring.
- Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune dead stems in late fall
- Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
- Don’t disturb roots during flowering
- Refrain from using chemical pesticides
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet questions
What zones can Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet grow in?
Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet deer resistant?
Yes — Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet bloom?
Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet need full sun?
Swamp Milkweed Ice Ballet does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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