Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly weed)

Photo/Illustration: Steve Aitken

(Based on 5 user reviews)

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Botanical Name: Asclepias tuberosa ah-SKLEE-pee-us too-ber-OH-sah Common Name: Butterfly weed Genus: Asclepias

Butterfly weed is a native perennial with flat-topped, orange or yellow flower clusters at the ends of its stems or in its leaf axils. From midsummer to autumn, it produces clusters of brightly colored flowers that attract insects, followed by fruit and showy seed. Plant in a border, meadow, butterfly garden, or wildflower garden.
Noteworthy characteristics: Very bright orange or yellow flowers. U.S. native. This plant's milky white sap may irritate skin. Its stiff, thick branches may act as treillage to support weaker neighboring plants. Attracts bees and butterflies. May be slow to emerge in spring.
Care: Needs full sun and fertile, well-drained, loamy soil. They have taproots and resent disturbance.
Propagation: Sow seeds in a cold frame in early spring. Divide plants or take basal cuttings in spring.
Problems: Aphids and mealybugs can be a problem when flowering. In the southeast, rust and leaf spot are common.

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posted by csantoro
6/9/2008
Region: Midwest
Zone: 5

Butterfly "weed" is a victim of it's name, Using "weed" deters some people from choosing it. It is an excellent flower for all butterfly viewers but it dislikes having the roots disturbed when transplanting. This can make it a tricky one to get started, and don't overwater.

posted by LariD
4/10/2008
Region: Midwest
Zone: 5

This plant always looks great, whether in bloom or not. The bloom time is long and the plants don't get leggy or fall over. It tends to self sow prolifically which can be a good thing or a problem depending on your situation. I enjoy it and look forward to its reappearance every year.

posted by Denisey
4/8/2008
Region: Midwest
Zone: 6

I grow the pink version of this plant. I have never seen the one pictured. I have grown the orange butterfly weed also, which is shorter than the pink. They are a must for all butterfly gardens. The pink one gets very tall and is impressive with a long flowering period.

posted by McGigs
3/29/2008
Region: Midwest
Zone: 5

This plant is a butterfly mecca. The color is fabulous and it's native. What more could you ask for? In my experience, however, it can be hard to find because growers may experience difficulties in cultivating plants and, once purchased, gardeners struggle to establish plants. It's worth the trouble, however, so perservere!

posted by SteveA
3/26/2008
Region: Northeast
Zone: 6

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Photo/Illustration: Steve Aitken

Photo/Illustration: Courtesy of Bob Cook

Photo/Illustration: Steve Aitken

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