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Milkweed Look alikes #885314

Asked September 15, 2024, 2:09 PM EDT

I have clusters of milkweed plants spreading in my berm. Leaves are lighter than common milkweed and may have some yellow. It grows in clusters and are not as tall as the common milkweed. It also has an extensive root system. Is this invasive? If 'yes', what is the best way to eradicate it? It's spreading into my good pollinator plants. Thank you so much.

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thank you for reaching out to ask2.extension.

There is a weed called Hemp dogbane that is similar looking to milk weed.  You could google it and see if that’s what you’re seeing.  Or if you could send me a picture, then I could make an I’d.

Deb Kroon Replied September 15, 2024, 6:00 PM EDT
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Thank you for the quick reply. Here is a picture of it. If it is dogbane, should I get rid of it to avoid over crowding my other pollinator plants? Thank you

On Sun, Sep 15, 2024, 5:00 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied September 16, 2024, 9:13 AM EDT

I think that is actually garden phlox.  It is a perennial flower that is quite invasive.  Do you have any in your garden?

If you don’t want it you need to dig it out and try to get all of the roots.  I have it in row colors and it is beautiful when it blooms, but I am constantly digging it out to keep it controlled.  Mine grows to about 3-4 feet high.  It will over shadow anything near it, blocking the direct sun.

If you decide to keep it, you should move it to the back of your bed.  Like I said it’s very pretty, but is invasive.

Deb Kroon Replied September 16, 2024, 2:32 PM EDT

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