Butterfly Weed

Butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a low-maintenance perennial that thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils and adapts to dry and moist conditions. Preferring full sun, it is drought-tolerant and grows up to 2 feet tall. Its brilliant orange flowers bloom from May to September, attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, and serving as a larval host for monarchs, queens, and grey hairstreak butterflies. While it is an excellent ornamental plant for gardens and cut flowers, all parts of the plant, particularly the roots, are toxic if ingested in large quantities.

Scientific Name: Asclepias tuberosa
Origin: North America
Height: 2-3 feet
Spread: 1-2 feet
Light: Full Sun
Water: Low
USDA Zones: 3-9
Bloom Dates: May - September
Larval Host: Grey Hairstreak, Monarch, Queens
Medicinal Use: Traditionally used to treat pleurisy and other respiratory ailments.
Deer Resistance: High