Asclepias tuberosa - Butterfly Milkweed

Asclepias tuberosa - Butterfly Milkweed

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Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is typically found in dryer, sandier soils. This shorter bright orange flowered member of the milkweed genus is a great stand alone garden plant as well as a necessary component of short grass prairie ecosystems.

Unlike other milkweeds, a plucked butterfly milkweed leaf does not exude a milky sap.

In presettlement times, Asclepias tuberosa was found only in prairie sites. It was one of a few prairie species that was able to naturally seed, grow, and proliferate in open, dry, non-prairie environments. It therefore is found throughout the region and is not a specific prairie indicator.

Its range extends to cover the entire United States with the exception of the north western portion.

It is a host plant for Monarch butterflies and supports countless other pollinators.

This is a great species for those looking to plant shorter growing native gardens. These complementary plants can help you cultivate a colorful, shorter growing native garden.

Foxglove Beardtongue

Dense Blazingstar

Narrow Leaved Mountain Mint

Old Field / Dwarf Goldenrod

Ohio Spiderwort

How To Plant Butterfly Milkweed Seeds:

Direct sow seeds into prepared soil in late fall once soil temps are below 50 degrees (mid to late November). Can also be planted in winter during natural / freeze cycles and early spring. Plant shallow, no deeper than 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep and lightly rake to work seed in. Plant in full sun ( at least 6 hours a day). Can take 3 growing season to fully establish.

Seed Info

Seed Envelopes contain approximately 0.02 ounces of seed and cover about 5 to 10 square feet. 

What is Stratification?

Planting Milkweed

Product Details

Flower Color: Orange

Height: 2 to 4 Feet

Light Requirements: Full Sun

Soil Hydrology: Dry to Mesic Soils

Bloom Time: June to August

Plant Type: Perennial

Stratification: Cold Moist (CM) 60 Days

Attracts: Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Host Plant: Monarch, Grey Hairstreak, Queens

Product Code: ASC05F