The straight native orange form of Asclepias tuberosa, or commonly called butterfly weed, is a milkweed, and one of the best plants for a sunny native or pollinator garden. Its brilliant orange flower clusters appear in summer above upright stems and narrow green foliage, creating a strong splash of color while providing an important nectar source for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. It is particularly valuable because milkweeds serve as a host plant for monarch caterpillars. Unlike many moisture-loving perennials, butterfly weed develops a deep taproot and prefers well-drained soil once established. It is an excellent choice for prairie gardens, naturalized areas, pollinator borders, and locations where a tough, drought-tolerant perennial is desired.
Height: 1–2 ft
Width: 1–1½ ft
Flower time: June–August
Sun/Shade: Full sun
Deer resistant
Rabbit resistant
The straight native orange form of Asclepias tuberosa, or commonly called butterfly weed, is a milkweed, and one of the best plants for a sunny native or pollinator garden. Its brilliant orange flower clusters appear in summer above upright stems and narrow green foliage, creating a strong splash of color while providing an important nectar source for butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. It is particularly valuable because milkweeds serve as a host plant for monarch caterpillars. Unlike many moisture-loving perennials, butterfly weed develops a deep taproot and prefers well-drained soil once established. It is an excellent choice for prairie gardens, naturalized areas, pollinator borders, and locations where a tough, drought-tolerant perennial is desired.
Height: 1–2 ft
Width: 1–1½ ft
Flower time: June–August
Sun/Shade: Full sun
Deer resistant
Rabbit resistant
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