Asclepias tuberosa
Butterfly Weed
USDA Hardiness Zone 4-9
Butterfly weed is a native plant that is late to emerge in the spring. Its fragrant, 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. Thrives in difficult locations where soil is lean and dry. Most effective when planted in groups. Slow to break dormancy in spring.
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. Prefers well-drained, gravelly soil.
When to Divide
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Good Companions
Yarrow (Achillea ), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Blue Switch Grass (Panicum virgatum), White Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), Spiked Gayfeather (Liatris spicata), Purple Lovegrass (Eragrostis spectabilis), English Lavender/Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender ), Bee Balm (Monarda didyma), Pink Chives (Allium schoenpraesum), Ornamental Oregano (Origanum ), Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), Coneflower (Echinacea Sombrero ), Bee Balm (Monarda Sugar Buzz® ), Bee Balm (Monarda Sugar Buzz® ), Catmint (Nepeta ), Beardtounge (Penstemon barbatus Rock Candy®)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 |
