Promoting the Use of Native Plant Species in the Home Landscape

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Butterfly Weed

Plant Leaf

Full Plant

Asclepias tubersora, Butterfly Weed

Plant Berry/Flower

Latin Name: Asclepias tuberosa

Flower Description:

The bright orange flower clusters are at the top of the stem. Each flower has 5 petals, and the lower part of the flower turns backward which is typical of milkweeds.

FamilyMilkweed
Season BloomSummer, fall
HabitatDry dunes, meadows, roadsides. Plant emerges in late spring. As a member of the milkweed family, Butterfly Weed is an important host for Monarch butterflies, Milkweed Tossock Moths, and milkweed beetles. As a well-behaved milkweed, it is suited to a landscaped garden.
CyclePerennial
Height1-2'
Leaf DescriptionThere are many leaves that alternate on the stem. Each is narrow, lance-like and 2-4" long. They do not bleed a milky white sap when broken.
Soil Type Dry
Light Source Sun
LocationWoodland