Spreading Dogbane, Apocynum androsaemifolium is a common and widespread wildflower. It is a close relative to milkweeds and similarly toxic. It is not a suitable larval host for monarch butterflies however its flowers are an important source of nectar for adult monarchs as well as many other types of butterflies, bees, flies and wasps. It is the larval host for the dogbane leaf beetle. Fibrous stems have been used to make cords, rope and bowstrings. Spreading dogbane produces terminal clusters of fragrant white and pink flowers that bloom between mid-june and august. These are followed by long narrow seed pods that contain hundreds of small seeds that are dispersed by wind. The foliage is also attractive, green oval shaped leaves that turn bright yellow in early fall. 

Bloom time: Early summer

Wildlife benefits: Nectar source, larval host

Uses: Pollinator gardens, meadow/prairie plantings

Conditions: Shade, part shade, sun. Well drained soils. Drought tolerant, deer resistant.