Asclepias tuberosa
Asclepias tuberosa is the hot orange butterfly weed native to the eastern North America that feeds monarch butterflies.
Asclepias tuberosa is native to eastern North America where it is known as butterfly weed. The fragrant flowers are a nectar source for monarch butterflies and a wide range of other pollinators. The plants are an important larval host for monarch caterpillars. This species erupts with brilliant orange flowers over a long period from midsummer to early fall followed by attractive green seed pods filled with silky “parachutes” that catch the autumn winds. Unlike other milkweeds, this species does not have milky sap. Full sun, dry soil. Late to emerge in spring so be patient. Use in the pollinator, cottage and rock garden, as a filler in borders and in fresh and dried bouquets. Deer resistant.
Common Name: Butterfly Weed
Family: Asclepiadaceae (The Milkweed Family)
Zone Hardiness: 3-9
Light: Full Sun
Height: 12-24"
Width: 12-24"
Primary Bloom Colour: Orange
Secondary Bloom Colour: Orange
Bloom Time: Summer
Foliage Colour: Green
Class: Deciduous
Type: Perennial
Soil Moisture: Dry, Average, Drought Tolerant
Stem Colour:
Fragrance: Yes
Berries: White
Benefits: Butterflies, Bees, Hummingbirds
Deer Resistant: Yes
BC Native: No
Native Habitat: Dry open sandy and gravelly soils and grassy places by the sides of roads.
Award:
Geographical Origin: North America
