Species

Asclepias tuberosaButterfly Weed

3 other cultivars

perennialN. America Native

Butterfly Weed Gay Butterflies Milkweed

Asclepias tuberosa 'Gay Butterflies'

$49.99

The Story

Plant Bio

A bright perennial that attracts pollinators and is known for its vibrant flowers in shades of orange, yellow, and red.

Butterfly weed is particularly favored by monarch butterflies and is resilient to drought conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

A stunning, nectar-rich perennial that attracts butterflies and pollinators, adding vibrant orange color to gardens.

Provides a sustainable source of food for monarch butterfly larvae, supporting local ecosystems.

Supports biodiversity by attracting beneficial insects and serving as a host plant for monarchs.

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

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

All parts are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Nature Hills

In Stock$49.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck seeds into the soil surface, pressing gently to ensure good contact.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote root growth.
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilize with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring.
Divide mature plants in early spring or fall to propagate more specimens.

Pro Tip

Use native soil and sunlight conditions to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during the growing season 💧
Prune after flowering to promote bushier growth ✂️
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring 🌱
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Do not fertilize with high nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage over flowers ❌
Do not disturb roots when dividing plants ❌
Avoid planting in heavy, poorly-drained soils ❌

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

Bright, nectar-rich butterfly gardenNative wildflower meadowWildlife-friendly border

Companion Plants

Echinacea purpurea Rudbeckia hirta Liatris spicata Solidago spp.Asparagus officinalis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Butterfly Weed Gay Butterflies Milkweed questions

What zones can Butterfly Weed Gay Butterflies Milkweed grow in?

Butterfly Weed Gay Butterflies 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 Weed Gay Butterflies Milkweed deer resistant?

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

When does Butterfly Weed Gay Butterflies Milkweed bloom?

Butterfly Weed Gay Butterflies 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 Weed Gay Butterflies Milkweed need full sun?

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

Is Butterfly Weed Gay Butterflies Milkweed drought tolerant?

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