Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Toxic to humans and animals if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Asclepias tuberosa, commonly known as Butterfly Weed, is a perennial that is native to North America. It is known for its vibrant orange flowers and its ability to attract butterflies. This species is a crucial larval host plant for monarch butterfly caterpillars and a rich nectar source for many other butterflies and pollinators.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly to maintain moisture during rooting.
- Ensure full sun exposure for optimal growth.
- Water regularly but avoid waterlogged soil, especially in winter.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support blooming.
- Divide mature plants in early spring or late fall for propagation.
Pro Tip
Use a sandy or loamy soil mix and provide full sun for vigorous growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged stems in late winter
- Apply mulch to retain soil moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don't disturb the roots during flowering
- Refrain from fertilizing in late fall
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
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 Weed questions
What zones can Butterfly Weed grow in?
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 Butterfly Weed deer resistant?
Yes — Butterfly Weed is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Butterfly Weed bloom?
Butterfly Weed 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 need full sun?
Butterfly Weed does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Butterfly Weed drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Butterfly Weed 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 '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'
Butterfly Milkweed
Asclepias x hybrida
Cinderella Milkweed
Asclepias incarnata 'Cinderella'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Butterfly Weed 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.
