Scientific Name: Asclepias tuberosa L.
Family: Asclepiadaceae
Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. Illustrated flora of the northern states and Canada. Vol. 3: 20. Courtesy of Kentucky Native Plant Society. Scanned by Omnitek Inc. |
Recommended Temperature Zone: Sunset®: All zones USDA: 3-9 Sun Exposure: Full sun to part sun Origin: Eastern Northern America Growth Habits: Herbaceous perennial, 1 to 2.5 feet tall (30-75 cm), 1 to 1.5 feet spread (30-45 cm) Flowers: Yellow or light orange flowers Watering Needs: Regular water but rather drought tolerant Propagation: Seeds, the butterfly milkweed doesn't transport easily |
The stems die in winter and grow back in the spring from the tuberous root. This plant is mildly poisonous. Although a type of milkweed, its stems do not have milky sap.
This is the host plant for the caterpillars of the Monarch butterfly. The orange flowers loaded with nectar are also known for attracting large quantities of adult butterflies of many species.
Blooming Habits:
Brilliant orange or red flower clusters appear in mid-summer
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