Butterfly Weed

Establish Butterfly Weed in sunny, well-drained sites for long-lived seasonal color and pollinator support.

• When to sow: Late fall for natural stratification, or early spring after 30 days cold exposure.
• Light: Full sun (6+ hours).
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or average soils.
• Water: Moderate during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
• Depth: Lightly cover seeds with 1/8 inch of soil.
• Spacing: 12–18" apart.

Avoid overly rich or wet soils to prevent root rot.

Asclepias tuberosa is a vibrant, regionally adapted milkweed native to much of the southeastern and eastern United States. Unlike many milkweeds, it does not exude milky sap. Brilliant orange blooms attract butterflies, native bees, and beneficial insects throughout summer. It is an important nectar source and supports monarch caterpillars as a larval host plant.

• Hardiness Zones: 3–9.
• Height: 1–3 feet.
• Bloom window: Early–mid summer.
• Wildlife: Monarchs, swallowtails, native bees.
• Habit: Upright, clumping perennial.
• Best uses: Meadows, pollinator gardens, dry borders.