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Butterfly Milkweed Plant

Butterfly Weed is a magnet for monarchs and butterflies. It's a remarkable perennial plant that graces the eastern coast of the United States and extends southward. It is a lush, leafy plant with tiny orange blossoms that are highly attractive to butterflies. This plant belongs to the family of plants known as “Milkweed” because of the unique, milky substance stored in its stems, which becomes visible when broken. It is the host plant for the famed Monarch Butterfly and supports its full life cycle, from egg to caterpillar to butterfly and back again, making milkweed for monarchs an essential addition to any pollinator garden.

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Monarch butterfly on Butterfly Milkweed Plant flowers
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Planting & Growing Information

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Planting Zone

3-9

Height at Maturity

Over 12"

Water Needs

Low

Sun or Shade

Full sun

Bloom Season

Summer

Care

Butterfly Milkweed flourishes in well-drained soil and is tolerant to drought. Water it moderately, permitting the soil to dry between waterings. Prune finished blooms to promote new growth and remove weeds to reduce competition. Mulching around the plant is also beneficial.

Exposure

Butterfly Milkweed thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It prefers well-drained soil and benefits from the bright, warm conditions to produce vibrant flowers and attract pollinators.

Plant Attributes

Attracts butterflies & monarchs , Long summer blooming season, Low maintenance, striking color

Butterfly Weed is a magnet for monarchs and butterflies. It's a remarkable perennial plant that graces the eastern coast of the United States and extends southward. It is a lush, leafy plant with tiny orange blossoms that are highly attractive to butterflies. This plant belongs to the family of plants known as “Milkweed” because of the unique, milky substance stored in its stems, which becomes visible when broken. It is the host plant for the famed Monarch Butterfly and supports its full life cycle, from egg to caterpillar to butterfly and back again, making milkweed for monarchs an essential addition to any pollinator garden.

Planting & Growing Information

Ships

Ships Now

Planting Zone

3-9

Height at Maturity

Over 12"

Water Needs

Low

Sun or Shade

Full sun

Bloom Season

Summer

Care

Butterfly Milkweed flourishes in well-drained soil and is tolerant to drought. Water it moderately, permitting the soil to dry between waterings. Prune finished blooms to promote new growth and remove weeds to reduce competition. Mulching around the plant is also beneficial.

Exposure

Butterfly Milkweed thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It prefers well-drained soil and benefits from the bright, warm conditions to produce vibrant flowers and attract pollinators.

Plant Attributes

Attracts butterflies & monarchs , Long summer blooming season, Low maintenance, striking color

Product Details

Butterfly Weed For Sale

Butterfly Weed, also known as Asclepias Tuberosa, is a remarkable perennial plant that graces the eastern coast of the United States and down into the south. It is a lush, leafy plant with tiny orange blossoms that are highly attractive to butterflies. This plant comes from a family of plants referred to as “Milkweed” because of the unique, milky substance stored inside its stems, which is visible when broken. It is the host plant for the famed Monarch Butterfly and supports its full life cycle, from egg to caterpillar to butterfly and back again, making milkweed for monarchs an essential addition to any pollinator garden.

Vibrant Butterfly Milkweed orange flowers and green foliage in mulched garden bed

Butterfly Weed Plants Detail

Family: Apocynaceae

Light Requirement: Full Sun

Water Needs: Minimal

Height: 3-5 ft

Spread: 2 ft

Growth Rate: Rapid

Soil Preference: Well-drained, Rocky, Sandy

Bloom Time: June - August

Flower Color: Orange

Wildlife Value: Monarchs and other butterflies, caterpillars

Notable Characteristics of Asclepias Tuberosa

Butterfly Milkweed is a lush, leafy plant with many oblong, unlobed leaves. The stem is sturdy and covered in fine hairs. When broken, it gives off a sticky, white substance, similar to Dandelions. The foliage of this plant is a lighter, bright green, which contrasts strikingly with its tiny orange flowers.

The blooms are flat-topped and contain multiple sprigs of flowers clustered tightly together. The flowers themselves have ten pointed petals in two layers and a yellow center. They are delicate, eye-catching flowers among the springy green foliage and are a gorgeous addition to any garden.

Landscape and Maintenance of Butterfly Milkweed

A native of the eastern and southern United States, the orange flower thrives in open meadows, grasslands, prairies, and roadsides. It is highly tolerant of drought conditions and infertile soil, making Butterfly Milkweed a hardy plant. It does not spread aggressively, but it isn't easy to move once established, making it a perfect plant neighbor and garden addition.

Dried butterfly milkweed root with brown fibrous texture and roots

Pollinator Magnet

Attracts a variety of beneficial insects like butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, enhancing the health and diversity of your garden. It’s an excellent way to support local pollinator populations.

Native Plant

Being native to North America, it supports local wildlife and ecosystems. It’s well-adapted to regional conditions, ensuring robust growth and sustainability.

Resilient and Low Maintenance

This wildflower’s unwavering resilience makes it easy to care for while enduring various conditions, ensuring it remains a standout feature in your garden.

Beautiful Cut Flowers: 

The striking blooms make excellent cut flowers for bouquets, adding a touch of natural beauty to your indoor decor. Brighten up your home with flowers that last.


Frequently Asked Questions

Is Butterfly Milkweed invasive?

No, Butterfly Milkweed is not invasive. It’s a well-behaved native plant that stays where it’s planted and grows in neat clumps. Its bright orange blooms attract butterflies, bees, and pollinators all summer long.

Where is the best place to plant Butterfly Milkweed?

The best place to plant Butterfly Milkweed is in full sun with well-drained soil. It thrives in open garden beds, meadows, or borders where it can soak up plenty of light. With sunlight and space, it rewards you with vibrant blooms that attract butterflies all season.

Does milkweed attract hummingbirds?

Yes, milkweed attracts hummingbirds along with butterflies and bees. Its colorful, nectar-rich flowers draw pollinators throughout the summer. Planting milkweed adds beauty while supporting vital wildlife in your garden.

Can I buy Asclepias for sale at TN Nursery?

Absolutely! TN Nursery provides Asclepias for sale, ideal for butterfly gardens. Our plants are robust, vibrant, and easy to grow in home gardens.

Why Buy Bare Root Plants From TN Nursery?

Since 1959, TN Nursery has grown and shipped quality bare root plants nationwide. Shipped during dormancy, bare-root plants develop strong root systems and establish quickly. Our experienced team carefully harvests and packages every order, providing growers with trusted plants backed by over 65 years of nursery experience.

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