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The host plant for Monarch butterflies, swamp milkweed attracts numerous other butterfly species as well. It grows well in most soils, but prefers boggy conditions. It is a relatively easy plant to grow so long as high soil moisture levels are maintained (it will survive drought conditions, but it is optimal in moist to wet soils). If you are looking for a plant that will attract butterflies in droves, swamp milkweed is the perfect complement to your Iowa garden.

Please note that the Zones listed above are USDA Hardiness Zones and are only given as a rough indication of whether a plant will grow and thrive in your area. Temperature variations and unusual weather conditions can affect plant survival. To assist plant survival during the winter, you may wish to place mulch over the areas in question or plant the flowers in an area away from walls or cement. Additionally, digging up bulbs and roots to overwinter indoors may be preferrable to keeping them in the ground.