Nowadays, you seldom hear milkweed mentioned outside of discussion about pollinators—and a good thing too! These striking, fragrant plants provide a crucial source of food and habitat not only for endangered Monarch Butterflies, but for scores of other pollinators as well. Milkweed is perennial and generally flowers in its second year.  There are many distinct varieties throughout the Americas; consult monarchwatch.org to learn more about which varieties are best for your region.