Common Names: Butterfly Weed
Scientific Name: Asclepias tuberosa
 
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial
Size: Typically grows to a height of 1-3 ft.
Foliage: The leaves are lance-shaped and often have a grayish-green color.
Bloom Color: Vibrant orange to red-orange, with small clusters of flowers.
Bloom Time: Summer to Early Fall
 
Growing Conditions
Water Use: Low to Moderate
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Soil Moisture: Well-Drained
 
Ecological Benefits
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a native perennial plant known for its vibrant orange flowers and its crucial role in supporting pollinators, especially butterflies. This plant serves as a host and nectar source for the endangered Monarch butterfly and other pollinators, contributing significantly to local biodiversity. Its adaptability to full sun and well-drained soils makes it a popular choice for gardens, meadows, and pollinator-friendly landscapes.