Asclepias exaltata aka Poke Milkweed

Asclepias exaltata, or poke milkweed, is a herbaceous perennial. It belongs to the dogbane family, Apocynaceae. Its native range covers eastern Canada and much of eastern America. It also grows in parts of the north-central United States. Its range extends south through the Appalachian Mountains. Wild plants grow in moist woods, clearings, and forest margins. They also grow along waterways and on slopes.

Garden plants reach 4–6 feet (1.22–1.83 metres) tall. They can fill a space 2–4 feet (0.61–1.22 metres) wide. Other records give heights of 2–7 feet (0.61–2.13 metres). The plant has an upright form and a moderate growth rate. Green stems may be smooth or bear sparse hairs. Cut stems and leaves release a milky sap. The broad, pointed leaves grow in opposite pairs. Their edges are smooth, and their veins may look purple. The upper leaf surface is smooth; hairs cover the underside. Leaf lengths range from 2 to 11 inches.

Loose umbels of flowers hang from long stalks in summer. June to July is the main bloom period reported. Flowers form at stem tips and in upper leaf axils. Each cluster holds about 10 to 25 small flowers. White and green shades may carry pink or lavender tones. The petals bend back, exposing hoods with projecting horns. Smooth, upright follicles follow the flowers. These pods reach 3 to 6 inches long. They hold brown seeds with tufts of white fibres. Wind carries the seeds when the pods open.

Grow poke milkweed in rich soil that drains well. Keep the soil moist, with an acid-to-neutral pH. Partial shade or dappled light suits its woodland habits. Sources also list full shade or full sun. Hardiness records together cover USDA zones 3–8. It needs little routine care and can grow from seed. Use it in shaded borders or plantings along woodland edges. It also fits native gardens and gardens for pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and beetles visit the flowers. Monarch caterpillars use it as a food plant. Deer tend to leave it alone.

Sources report few serious diseases or insect problems. Aphids can cause trouble, while milkweed bugs can damage pods. Aphid control may also harm monarch caterpillars and useful insects. The plant contains cardiac glycosides and poses risks to people and pets. Eating large amounts can cause gut upset, weakness, and confusion. Its sap can irritate skin and eyes. Historical records describe root use for stomach complaints. That use does not establish safe edibility.