​​Milkweed is the larval host plant for the Monarch butterfly.  While this species of butterfly will feed on any flower that produces nectar, the various species of milkweeds are the only plants on which Monarchs will lay their eggs.  Monarch populations have been in serious decline in recent years.  Due to the small part to a loss of habitat, both through deforestation of their winter grounds in Mexico and loss of milkweed habitat along their migration routes.​
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