Butterfly Milkweed
Asclepias x hybrida
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested in large quantities
The Story
Plant Bio
Asclepias x hybrida is a perennial hybrid milkweed with an upright, clumping growth habit. It features lance-shaped leaves and produces dense, rounded clusters (umbels) of small, intricate, star-shaped yellow flowers during the summer. It is a vital nectar source for pollinators, especially butterflies. This hybrid cultivar is valued for its vigorous growth and its ability to support monarch butterfly populations by providing essential nectar and larval host plants.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly until established, about 2 weeks.
- Place in full sun for optimal flowering.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring or fall.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and attract pollinators.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead to promote continuous flowering
- Divide in early spring or fall
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Use heavy mulch that retains moisture ❌
- Apply high nitrogen fertilizer which encourages lush foliage over blooms ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Butterfly Milkweed questions
What zones can Butterfly Milkweed grow in?
Butterfly Milkweed 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 Butterfly Milkweed deer resistant?
Yes — Butterfly Milkweed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Butterfly Milkweed bloom?
Butterfly Milkweed typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Butterfly Milkweed need full sun?
Butterfly Milkweed does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Butterfly Milkweed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Butterfly Milkweed handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Asclepias to compare
Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa
Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa 'Gay Butterflies Mix'
Butterfly Weed Gay Butterflies Milkweed
Asclepias tuberosa 'Gay Butterflies'
Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa 'Deluxe Butterfly Garden'
Hello Yellow Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa 'Hello Yellow'
Cinderella Milkweed
Asclepias incarnata 'Cinderella'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Butterfly Milkweed with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
