Birds attracted to Milkweed

Asclepias

Native to North America

Highlighted Milkweed Species:

• Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)
• Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)
• Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata)
• Purple Milkweed (Asclepias purpurascens)
• White Milkweed (Asclepias variegata)
• Whorled Milkweed (Asclepias verticillata)

Milkweed Identification and Relationship with Birds

Strongly associated with the Monarch butterfly, the Milkweed species highlighted in this profile are herbaceous perennials, ranging from 1 to 8 feet tall. Blooming from late spring to early fall, nectar-rich Milkweed attracts many insects, which in turn attract insectivorous birds. Hummingbirds will occasionally extract nectar from the Milkweed plant itself but usually prefer more tubular or trumpet shaped flowers.

Birds Most Commonly Attracted to Milkweed

• Insectivorous Birds
• Ruby-Throated Hummingbird