Butterfly Milkweed

Butterfly Milkweed - Asclepias Tuberosa

Butterfly Milkweed, also known as Asclepias Tuberosa, is a remarkable 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.

Plant Details - Butterfly Milkweed Plants

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 Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias Tuberosa)

The 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.

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How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Perennials, Tubers, and Bulbs

Bare root perennials, tubers, and bulbs are an easy and economical way to jumpstart your garden with lasting beauty. These dormant plants should be planted in early spring or fall while the soil is cool and workable. Before planting, soak bare roots in water for 1–2 hours to rehydrate them. Choose a location based on the plant’s light needs—most flowering types prefer full sun, while others thrive in partial shade.

For bare root perennials, dig a shallow hole and spread the roots out naturally, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. For tubers and bulbs, plant with the pointed side facing up at a depth about two to three times their height. Cover with soil, gently press down, and water thoroughly.

Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy) until new growth appears. Add mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid covering the crown or bulb tops. Once established, these plants require little maintenance—just seasonal watering, occasional dividing, and deadheading or pruning as needed. With proper care, they’ll return and thrive year after year.

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