Butterfly Weed

Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)

 

Milkweed is the essential host plant for monarch caterpillars and a nectar source for many pollinators. All of our milkweeds are hardy perennials that return year after year once established.

 

plant profile

Butterfly Weed is a showy native perennial known for its brilliant clusters of orange flowers. It naturally grows in prairies, fields, open woodlands, and other dry, sunny areas. Its deep taproot helps it tolerate dry conditions once established, making it an excellent choice for sunny, well drained gardens.

 

Growing conditions

  • Size: 1 to 3 feet tall, 1 to 2 feet wide
  • Light: Full sun
  • Soil: Well drained; adaptable to sandy, loamy, rocky, and other well drained soils
  • Water: Low to moderate; drought tolerant once established
  • Bloom time: Late spring through summer
  • Lifecycle: Perennial

 

planting instructions

  • Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
  • Dig a hole just wider than the root ball and plant level with soil surface.
  • Space 12–24 inches apart.
  • Water thoroughly after planting and regularly while the plant becomes established. Reduce supplemental watering once established.

  • Choose the planting location carefully, as Butterfly Weed develops a deep taproot and does not like to be disturbed once established.

     

seasonal growth pattern

  • Year 1: Focuses on establishing its root system and top growth. Flowering may be limited while the plant becomes established.
  • Year 2: Produces stronger growth and more reliable flowering.
  • Year 3 and beyond: Returns each spring with established growth and produces clusters of bright orange flowers during the growing season.
  • Fall & Winter: Seed pods mature and split to release wind dispersed seeds. Above ground growth dies back for winter and returns from the established root system in spring. Butterfly Weed can be slow to emerge, so do not assume the plant has died if it does not appear as early as other perennials.

 

care

Butterfly Weed performs best in full sun and well drained soil. Once established, it is drought tolerant and generally requires little supplemental watering. Avoid consistently wet or poorly drained locations. Because of its deep taproot, established plants are best left undisturbed.

 

notes

  • Drought tolerant once established.
  • Develops a deep taproot and does not transplant well once established.
  • May emerge later in spring than many other perennials.
  • Unlike most milkweeds, Butterfly Weed has clear rather than milky sap.