Swamp milkweed is best suited for moist areas such as rain gardens, low spots, or near ponds, as it prefers consistently damp soil rather than dry garden beds. Unlike some other milkweeds, it is less aggressive and forms tidy clumps, making it a good choice for both naturalized plantings and managed gardens.

It is an important host plant for monarch butterflies and supports many pollinators with its fragrant summer blooms. Its pink flowers are sometimes used in cut arrangements and can add soft colour and height to late-summer gardens.