Description
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.
