Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)

When people think of “milkweed,” this is the species that generally comes to mind. Common milkweed excels at colonizing in disturbed sites and can be found in a wide range of habitats. It is one of many native milkweed species that monarch butterfly larvae use as a source of food. The milkweed contains a toxic compound that once consumed makes the butterfly unpalatable to predators throughout its lifecycle. Milkweeds like this species also have medicinal applications and have been used in salves and infusions. However, they should be prepared with caution due to the plants inherent toxicity.