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English Entomology Milkweeds (Asclepias) Wasps (Hymenoptera)

Do Wasps Nectar from Milkweed Flowers?

Yes, wasps, like many other insects, will nectar from milkweed flowers. Milkweed flowers (Asclepias spp.) produce nectar that attracts a variety of insects, including bees, butterflies, beetles, and wasps.

A wasp on Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata).

These insects are drawn to the nectar for its sugary content, which provides them with energy. While many people associate milkweed primarily with Monarch butterflies, which rely on the plant as a larval host and nectar source, the plant’s flowers are visited by numerous other insects as well, such as the Milkweed Bug.

Milkweed Bug on Milkweed flowers.

It’s interesting that while these insects benefit from the nectar, they don’t always effectively pollinate the milkweed. The plant has a unique pollination mechanism that requires specific interactions for successful pollination.

Wasp on Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica).

As we continue to learn just how important Milkweed plants are to the overall ecology, we can appreciate the many different bugs that need us to Plant More Milkweed!

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