Asclepias tuberosa
Butterfly Weed
USDA Hardiness Zone 4-9
Butterfly weed is a native plant that is late to emerge in the spring. Its bright orange flower has a very long bloom time, with flat terminals of rounded clusters. Monarchs are especially drawn to this mid-summer bloomer. Also referred to as Milkweed, due to the sap produced.
Height
24-36 Inches
Spread
24 Inches
Color
Orange
Interesting Notes
Ornamental seed pods, after bloom, are also a nice attraction. You can see this plant at Millenium Park in Chicago.
Bloom Time
July-August
Homeowner Growing and Maintenance Tips
Sear stems to seal the sap to use as cut flowers. This is a perfect meadow plant, restored grassland and prairies.
When to Divide
_
Good Companions
Yarrow (Achillea ), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Blue Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum), White Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Spiked Gayfeather (Liatris spicata), Purple Lovegrass (Native Grass- Eragrostis spectabilis), English Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)Characteristics & Attributes
Attracts Wildlife
| • | Butterflies |
| • | Hummingbirds |
Attributes & Uses
| • | Cut Flowers |
Exposure
| • | Full Sun |
Foliage Color
| • | Green |
Season of Interest (Flowering)
| • | Summer |
Season of Interest (Foliage)
| • | Summer |
