The best kind of milkweed for monarchs is a matter of preference for the female monarchs, as they will lay their eggs on all nine milkweed species. However, there are certain milkweed species that monarchs tend to prefer over others. Among these, swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) and common milkweed (A. syriaca) have been found to be the most favored by female monarchs, with the highest number of eggs being laid on these plants.
I have personally observed this preference in my own garden. I have a variety of milkweed species planted, including swamp milkweed and common milkweed, and I have noticed that these two species consistently attract a higher number of monarch butterflies compared to the other species.
Swamp milkweed, also known as butterfly weed, is a native perennial that thrives in moist soil conditions. It produces clusters of vibrant pink flowers that not only attract monarchs but also other pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The foliage of swamp milkweed is also a food source for monarch caterpillars.
Common milkweed, on the other hand, is a tall and robust perennial that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. It produces large and showy clusters of pink to purple flowers that are highly attractive to monarchs. The leaves of common milkweed are a favored food source for monarch caterpillars, making it an important plant for their lifecycle.
While swamp milkweed and common milkweed are the top choices for monarchs, it is worth noting that other milkweed species also play a role in supporting monarch populations. Some monarchs may choose to lay their eggs on other milkweed species such as showy milkweed (A. speciosa), butterfly milkweed (A. tuberosa), or whorled milkweed (A. verticillata).
To create a monarch-friendly garden, I suggest including a variety of milkweed species to cater to different preferences of the monarchs. This not only provides ample egg-laying opportunities but also ensures a diverse and sustainable habitat for these beautiful butterflies. Additionally, incorporating other nectar-rich flowers in your garden will attract adult monarchs and provide them with a reliable source of food.
While swamp milkweed and common milkweed are the preferred milkweed species for monarchs, it is beneficial to include a variety of milkweed species in your garden to support a diverse population of these magnificent butterflies.
