Milkweed (Asclepias) Species of Canada?

Asclepias is a genus of plants commonly known as milkweeds. It is the Larval Host Plant for Milkweed Butterflies, like the Monarch. It has a milky latex which is toxic in effort to protect the caterpillars from being eaten.

In Canada, there are several species of Milkweed that can be found. Here are some of the known Asclepias species in Canada:

1. Asclepias amplexicaulis – Clasping Milkweed

2. Asclepias exaltata – Poke Milkweed

3. Asclepias incarnata – Swamp Milkweed

4. Asclepias syriaca – Common Milkweed

5. Asclepias sullivantii – Sullivant’s Milkweed

6. Asclepias tuberosa – Butterfly Milkweed

These species are native to different regions of Canada and play an important role in supporting the life cycle of Monarch butterflies and other pollinators. Please note that the list may not be exhaustive, and there could be other Asclepias species found in specific regions of the country.