Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate' – The perfect pink summer bloomer for butterflies

The Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate', also known as the butterfly plant or pink milkweed, is an elegant and robust perennial that transforms any garden with its romantic, deep pink flowers. This summer beauty is not only a feast for the eyes but also an important source of nectar for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators.

With its vigorous growth, abundant flowering and versatile uses, the Soulmate a favourite among gardeners who appreciate colour, biodiversity and a natural look in the garden.

Intense flowering from mid to late summer

The Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate' blooms profusely from July to September with umbels of deep pink flowers that rise above the dark green foliage. The flowers are densely clustered and form compact umbels that give the plant a full, vibrant appearance.

At 120 to 150 cm tall, this butterfly plant is perfect as a background plant in borders, but can also be planted as a standalone to create a striking accent. Its upright stems and long flowering period make it an attractive addition to the garden for weeks.

Ideal for wet borders and marshy gardens

Unlike many other perennials, the Soulmate in moist to wet soil. It's ideal for:

• Edges of ponds or ditch banks

• Marshy or rain-resistant borders

• Beds with wet soil

It loves full sun, but also tolerates light shade. Its strong root system ensures it can withstand wet conditions and continues to grow steadily, even after heavy rain.

A magnetic butterfly plant

The Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate' is a real butterfly magnet. The flowers are rich in nectar and attract numerous pollinators, including monarch butterflies, butterflies, and bees.

This attractiveness means the plant contributes to a biodiverse garden and supports the local ecosystem. Combine it with other nectar plants like rudbeckia, echinacea, or veronica for a vibrant border bursting with activity and color.

Cut flower with tropical flair

The Soulmate is an excellent cut flower in bouquets and arrangements. Its sturdy stems and densely blooming umbels create a long-lasting and eye-catching vase-filling effect.

When cutting, watch out for the white milky sap (latex) that may flow from the stems. This is normal for Asclepias species. To minimize the sap, you can place the stems directly in water or briefly sear them. This will keep the flowers fresh and decorative longer.

Cultivation and care

The Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate' is low-maintenance and reliable, provided it's placed in a suitable spot. For optimal growth and flowering:

• Location: full sun to light shade

• Soil: moist to wet, well-drained, rich in organic matter

• Height: 120 – 150 cm

• Flowering period: July – September

• Winter hardiness: very winter hardy

After flowering, spent flower heads can be removed to keep the plant well-maintained and increase the chance of reblooming. In harsh winters, an extra layer of mulch around the roots can protect the plant from the cold.

Application in garden and greenhouse

The Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate' is versatile and suits various garden styles:

• Wet borders and marshy gardens

• Edges of ponds and water features

• Mixed perennial borders

• Cut flower cultivation in summer bouquets

With its romantic pink flowers and long flowering period, the plant forms a natural focal point that makes gardens visually attractive and at the same time contributes to biodiversity.

Key features of Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate'

• Deep pink flowers in compact umbels

• Blooms for a long time from July to September

• Height: 120 – 150 cm

• Ideal for wet borders, marshy gardens and pond edges

• Attracts butterflies, bees and other pollinators

• Suitable as a cut flower

• Hardy and low maintenance

• Location: full sun to light shade

A romantic favorite for summer and biodiversity

With its elegant pink flowers, attractive pollinators, and reliable flowering, Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate' is a must-have for any summer garden. It brings color, height, and life to the garden while also supporting local flora and fauna.

Whether in the border, at the pond edge or as a cut flower in bouquets, the Soulmate is a timeless, romantic perennial that perfectly combines beauty and ecological value.

An unforgettable summer appearance: the Asclepias incarnata 'Soulmate'.