Milkweed Chosen as Wisconsin Plant of the Year

By Blake Jackson

Milkweed has been named the “Plant Species of the Year” by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for 2024. This native plant plays a critical role in supporting monarch butterflies, which rely solely on milkweed to lay eggs and feed their caterpillars.

Wisconsin is home to 13 native milkweed species. However, five of these are currently endangered or threatened. The DNR and environmental experts stress that planting milkweed is essential to protect monarchs, whose populations have sharply declined due to climate change, pesticide use, and habitat loss.

“Monarch butterflies face several major threats, including habitat loss, pesticides and climate change,” said Jay Watson, Wisconsin DNR insect ecologist. “Planting milkweed can help create habitat for monarchs, other butterflies and bumble bees.”

According to a 2024 survey by the World Wildlife Foundation, the eastern monarch population wintering in Mexico covered just 2.2 acres — a 59% drop from the previous year. Although the population nearly doubled last winter, experts warn it's still 80% below historic levels.

In Elm Grove, a small village in Wisconsin, 305 properties already host milkweed, with a goal to reach 400 by year’s end. Nicci Sternitzky, chair of the beautification committee, says milkweed can grow in containers or various yard conditions once it’s established.

Different milkweed species grow well in different soils and sunlight levels. Swamp milkweed prefers moist areas, while woolly and green milkweed grow well in dry conditions.

“Monarchs are going to lay eggs on milkweed that is doing well in its environment,” said Skye Bruce of the Wisconsin Monarch Collaborative. “So we really just want to find the milkweed that’s best for the people so and the landscape.”

Even adult monarchs use milkweed for nectar, and planting native flowers that bloom through the seasons further supports pollinators.

With continued threats to pollinators, experts urge more people to plant milkweed suited to their local soil and sun exposure to help protect monarch butterflies for the future.

Photo Credit: istock-herreid