Plant Overview

Butterfly Weed is a stunning native perennial that creates a magnificent display of vibrant orange flowers throughout summer. This hardy plant is a vital host for Monarch butterflies and attracts various pollinators to your garden. Its clusters of bright blooms sit atop upright stems with narrow, dark green leaves, creating an eye-catching display in any landscape.

Plant Information

• Latin Name: Asclepias tuberosa
• Common Name: Butterfly Weed, Pleurisy Root
• Watering Requirements: Low to Medium
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun
• Soil Conditions: Well-draining, sandy to rocky soils
• Mature Plant Height: 24-36 inches
• Mature Plant Width: 18-24 inches

Plant Care

Butterfly Weed is remarkably low-maintenance once established. This drought-tolerant plant requires minimal watering and thrives in poor soil conditions. Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding. In late fall, cut back stems to ground level. The plant is resistant to deer and rabbits, making it an excellent choice for natural gardens.

During the growing season, avoid overwatering as the plant has a deep taproot and prefers dry conditions. Watch for aphids, which can occasionally appear but rarely cause significant damage. The plant is generally disease-resistant and requires no special winter protection in most zones.

Planting Instructions

Plant Butterfly Weed in spring or early summer in a location with full sun exposure. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and at the same depth. The crown should be level with the soil surface. Space plants 18-24 inches apart to allow for mature spread.

Due to its deep taproot, Butterfly Weed doesnt transplant well, so choose the location carefully. Water thoroughly after planting but allow soil to dry between waterings. Add a light layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it away from the crown to prevent rot.

The plant may be slow to emerge in spring, so mark its location and be patient. First-year growth focuses on root development, with more vigorous growth and flowering in subsequent years.

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