Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Weed)

An all-around native favorite for its ecological value, sturdiness and beauty.  Clusters of bright orange blooms in summer are attractive to butterflies and a myriad of other pollinators. Blooms are followed by seed pods that split open and disperse the downy haired seed. Leaves are 3-4" long, narrow, and pointed. Larval host plant of the monarch and queen butterflies. Prefers average to dry soils and tolerates drought well due to its tuberous taproot. 

  • Plant Patent: n/a 
  • Container Size:  
  • USDA Zone: 3-9 
  • Height: 1-3’ 
  • Spread: 1-2’ 
  • Sun Exposure: full sun 
  • Soil Moisture: dry to average 
  • Bloom Time: summer 
  • Bloom Color: orange or yellow 
  • Foliage Color: green 
  • US Native: yes 
  • Wildlife Benefit: pollinators 
  • Notes: deer tolerant, drought tolerant 
  • Image Credit: