Asclepias tuberosa, commonly called butterfly weed, is a native
perennial which occurs in open woods, glades, prairies, fields and roadsides. It
typically grows in a clump to 1-3′ tall and features clusters (umbels) of
bright orange to yellow-orange flowers atop upright to reclining, hairy stems
with narrow, lance-shaped leaves. Unlike many of the other milkweeds, this
species does not have milky-sapped stems. Flowers give way to prominent,
spindle-shaped seed pods (3-6″ long) which split open when ripe releasing
numerous silky-tailed seeds for dispersal by the wind. Seed pods are valued in
dried flower arrangements. Long bloom period from late spring throughout the summer.
Flowers are a nectar source for many butterflies and leaves are a food source
for monarch butterfly larvae (caterpillars).
Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full
sun. Drought tolerant. Does well in poor, dry soils. New growth tends to emerge
late in the spring. Plants are easily grown from seed, but are somewhat slow to
establish and may take 2-3 years to produce flowers. Mature plants may Fastly
self-seed in the landscape if seed pods are not removed prior to splitting
open. Butterfly weed does not transplant well due to its deep taproot, and is
probably best left undisturbed once established. Garden Uses. Butterfly
gardens, meadows, prairies, or naturalized/native plant areas. Also effective
in sunny borders or slopes. Whether massing plants in large drifts or
sprinkling them throughout a prairie or meadow, butterfly weed is one of our
showiest native wildflowers.
Growing Instructions
1. Put a mixture of potting soil and sand or perlite into a pot with
drainage holes in the base. The soil should be moist and well-drained. Grows
best in light, rich, evenly moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates
some light shade. Tolerates some soil dryness.
2. Sow the seeds on the soil.
3. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
4. Water the seeds. Keep the soil moist but not wet.
5. When the plants are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.
Isaac (verified owner) –
Very fast delivery.
Edward (verified owner) –
WOW!! Not one dud in the bunch!! Shortly after planting they started growing ! These are really great packet of seeds!!!
John (verified owner) –
Very well worth the money.
Kayden (verified owner) –
Very healthy seeds! Well worth it.
Liam (verified owner) –
WOW!! Not one dud in the bunch!! Shortly after planting they started growing ! These are really great packet of seeds!!!