Asclepias tuberosa 'Gay Butterflies Mix'

Species

Asclepias tuberosaButterfly Weed

3 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed

Asclepias tuberosa 'Gay Butterflies Mix'

The Story

Plant Bio

A North American native milkweed species prized for its vibrant, long-lasting summer flowers that are a magnet for pollinators. Features a deep taproot, making it drought-tolerant but difficult to transplant. Foliage is lance-shaped and emerges late in spring.

The 'Gay Butterflies Mix' cultivar features a variety of colors including yellow, orange, and red which attract butterflies.

Uses & Benefits:

Bright orange flowers attract butterflies, enhancing garden beauty.

Drought-tolerant plant reduces water needs and maintenance.

Supports native pollinators and beneficial insects.

SpeciesAsclepias tuberosaButterfly Weed

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

24 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Eastern and Southern North America

Toxicity

All parts toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings lightly to encourage root development during propagation.
Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during hot months.
Prune spent flower stems to promote new growth and maintain shape.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support blooming.
Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before last frost for earlier blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
Prune dead or damaged stems to encourage healthy growth
Use organic compost to enrich soil each spring

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t disturb roots during flowering period
Refrain from using chemical fertilizers excessively

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wildflower meadow with vibrant orange bloomsButterfly-friendly border with nectar-rich flowersDrought-tolerant xeriscape accent

Companion Plants

Echinacea Liatris Coreopsis Salvia Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed questions

What zones can Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed grow in?

Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed deer resistant?

Yes — Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed bloom?

Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed need full sun?

Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Gay Butterflies Mix Butterfly Weed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.