Asclepias tuberosa | Butterfly Weed

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Common Name: Butterfly Weed
Botanical Name: Asclepias tuberosa
Plant Type: Native perennial wildflower
Native Range: Eastern and central North America (native to New York)
Bloom Time: Early to mid-summer
Flower Color: Bright orange
Height: 1–3 feet
Spread: 1–2 feet
Light: Full sun ☀️
Soil: Dry to medium, well-drained soil
Moisture: Dry to average
Deer Resistance: Moderate 🦌
Pollinator Value: Very high 🐝🦋

Description

Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a showy native perennial known for its brilliant orange flowers and exceptional pollinator value. Unlike other milkweeds, it prefers dry, well-drained soils and thrives in sunny gardens, meadows, and sandy sites.

This long-lived native plant forms a deep taproot, making it drought tolerant once established and ideal for low-maintenance landscapes. Its bright flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators throughout the summer.

Butterfly Weed works well in:

  • Pollinator gardens

  • Native plant gardens

  • Meadow plantings

  • Dry sunny borders

  • Wildlife gardens

Pollinator & Wildlife Value 🐝🦋

Butterfly Weed is one of the most valuable native plants for pollinators.

Supports:

Butterflies

  • Monarch butterflies (host plant) 🦋

  • Great spangled fritillary

  • American lady

  • Painted lady

Bees

  • Native solitary bees

  • Bumblebees

  • Honeybees

Other Pollinators

  • Skipper butterflies

  • Flower flies

  • Beneficial wasps

Wildlife Benefits

  • Monarch caterpillar host plant

  • Nectar source for many insects

  • Seeds used by birds

  • Provides insect habitat

Growing Tips 🌱

  • Prefers full sun and excellent drainage

  • Avoid rich or heavy soils

  • Slow to emerge in spring

  • Does not transplant easily due to taproot

  • Leave seed pods for wildlife and winter interest