Milkweed 'Red Butterfly'

Asclepias curassavica

Product code : WHPER-0003

The 'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native species. Its advertised height is 60–70 cm. Prepare the seedlings according to the species' requirements, using a well-draining substrate and providing sufficient light after germination. Plants raised indoors must be acclimatized before being planted outdoors. Choose a location that matches the recommended exposure and allow enough space for the foliage to develop. Water to help with root establishment, then adjust watering based on soil moisture. Avoid heavy fertilization without first observing the plant's actual needs.
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Detailed plant guide
Advice adapted to Canada
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Quantity
About 100 seeds
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Life cycle
Perennial

Discover the plant

Common nameMilkweed
FamilyApocynaceae
GenusAsclepias
Speciescurassavica
CultivarRed Butterfly
TypePerennial flower
Botanical nameAsclepias curassavica

Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly') (Asclepias curassavica). 'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native milkweed. The stated height is 60-70 cm. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), this packet allows you to start cultivation from seeds and track the development of young plants. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), prepare the site before sowing, and keep a label to identify this selection among your other crops.

Start growing 'Red Butterfly' milkweed in a space prepared for sowing. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), to start cultivation: Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before transplanting outdoors. Germination temperature: 21-24 °C. Emergence generally takes 10-21 days. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), keep a label to identify the selection after emergence. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), space the young plants according to their development and observe the first flowers to adjust their placement in the flower bed. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), prepare the seedlings according to the species' needs, in a well-draining substrate and with sufficient lighting after emergence.

In the garden, 'Red Butterfly' milkweed requires a site suited to its development. Flowering: July to September. Stated height: 60-70 cm. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), keep a label to identify the selection after emergence. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), space the young plants according to their development and observe the first flowers to adjust their placement in the flower bed. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), organize the planting by taking the mature height into account to keep each plant visible and accessible. For Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), repeat a few groups rather than scattering all the seedlings over a large space.

Photographie de Asclépiade (Asclepias curassavica 'Red Butterfly'), sélection proposée en semences W. H. Perron. Le visuel présente l'apparence de la plante ou de sa récolte et permet d'en observer les formes et les couleurs. Cette vue illustre les caractéristiques visibles de la sélection, dans une présentation destinée à accompagner son identification et à montrer son intérêt au jardin.

Sowing guide

It all startswith a seed.

Germination temperature

21 to 24 °C (70 to 75 °F)

Germination time

10-21 days

Sowing period

Sow indoors 8 to 10 weeks before outdoor transplanting

Propagation

Sowing

Growing method

'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native milkweed. Begin cultivating 'Red Butterfly' milkweed in a space prepared for seedlings. To start cultivation: Sow indoors 8 to 10 weeks before transplanting outdoors. Germination temperature: 21–24°C. Emergence generally takes 10–21 days. Keep a label to identify the selection after emergence. Space the young plants according to their development and observe the first flowers to adjust their placement in the flowerbed. Prepare the seedlings according to the species' needs, using a draining substrate and providing sufficient lighting after emergence. Plants raised indoors must be acclimated before being placed outside. At the start of the season, prepare your equipment and check the soil condition before setting your schedule. Adapt your actions to the plant's stage rather than a rigid date. After emergence, ensure sufficient light and space out the seedlings to avoid excessive competition. Gradually acclimate plants intended for the outdoors. During growth, observe the foliage, moisture levels, and the potential appearance of pests.

Soil and care

The right care,at the right time.

Watering

Weak

Soil type

'Red Butterfly' Milkweed: Keep a label to identify the variety after germination. Space out young plants according to their growth and observe the first flowers to adjust their placement in the bed. Use soil or a substrate that allows excess water to drain while maintaining the necessary moisture for the roots. Work the soil only when it has dried out sufficiently to avoid compaction. Remove weeds before planting and adapt the application of organic matter to the crop.

Fertilization

Base fertilization on soil fertility, the substrate used, and observed growth. Follow the dosages indicated on the chosen product; increasing applications does not guarantee better results. Pre-enriched potting soil does not require the same interventions as a poor substrate. Avoid placing concentrated fertilizer against seeds or fragile roots. Water according to the manufacturer's instructions and reduce applications when growth slows down.

Seasonal care

'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native milkweed. At the start of the season, prepare your equipment and check the soil condition before setting your schedule. Adapt your actions to the plants' growth stage rather than a rigid calendar date. After emergence, ensure sufficient light and space out the seedlings to avoid excessive competition. Gradually acclimatize plants intended for the outdoors. During growth, monitor the foliage, moisture levels, and the potential appearance of pests. Identify the problem before choosing an intervention. Remove debris that obstructs airflow, keep pathways accessible, and re-evaluate watering after rain. Note the sowing dates and key results. At the end of the cycle, clean your tools and store remaining packets in a cool, dry place. These observations allow for more precise adjustments to future sowings for your location. Prepare seeds according to the species' needs, using a well-draining substrate and providing sufficient light after emergence. Plants grown indoors must be acclimatized before being planted outside. Choose a location that matches the recommended light exposure and leave enough space for the foliage to develop. Water to facilitate rooting, then adapt moisture levels based on the soil's dampness. Avoid heavy fertilization without observing the plant's actual needs.

Container growing

A garden,within reach.

Keep a label to identify the selection after emergence. Space the young plants according to their growth and observe the first flowers to adjust their placement in the flowerbed. 'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native milkweed. Place the container in its final location before filling it. Choose a pot with drainage holes that is stable and large enough for root development; a simple closed decorative pot does not allow water to drain. Use potting mix rather than compact garden soil. Moisten the substrate before sowing or planting, without saturating it. Leave a rim at the top to facilitate watering and keep space between the plants. Regularly check moisture with your finger, as the surface may dry out while the bottom remains wet. Water slowly until water comes out through the holes, then empty the saucer. During hot weather, check the pots more often. Fertilize according to the needs of the crop and the instructions for the chosen product. Roots have limited volume: container gardening therefore requires different monitoring than planting in the ground. Position any necessary supports during installation. Maintain easy access to inspect the leaves, remove damaged parts, and harvest without pulling on the stems. At the end of the cycle, remove debris and clean the equipment before using it again.
Photographie de Asclépiade (Asclepias curassavica ‘Red Butterfly’), sélection proposée en semences W.H. Perron. Le visuel présente l’apparence de la plante ou de sa récolte et permet d’en observer les formes et les couleurs. Cette vue illustre les caractéristiques visibles de la sélection, dans une présentation destinée à accompagner son identification et à montrer son intérêt au jardin.

Bloom and dimensions

Its place,in your garden.

Mature height

24-28 in

Width / spread

30-60 cm

Flower color

Assorted colors

Bloom period

July to September
Photographie de Asclépiade (Asclepias curassavica ‘Red Butterfly’), sélection proposée en semences W.H. Perron. Le visuel présente l’apparence de la plante ou de sa récolte et permet d’en observer les formes et les couleurs. Cette vue illustre les caractéristiques visibles de la sélection, dans une présentation destinée à accompagner son identification et à montrer son intérêt au jardin.

Garden associations

In goodcompany.

Companion plants

Organize neighboring crops according to their light requirements, height, and space occupied at maturity. Prevent tall plants from permanently shading smaller ones or blocking access for watering. Successive crops can use the same space if the first is harvested before the next one expands. Flowers diversify the garden, but companion planting does not guarantee the absence of pests. Keep enough air between plants and observe the interactions on-site. Use companion planting as an organizational tool, without attributing automatic protection against diseases to it.

Frequently asked questions

Your questions,answered.

How to start this crop from seed?
The 'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native milkweed. Begin cultivating 'Red Butterfly' milkweed in an area prepared for sowing. To start cultivation: Sow indoors 8 to 10 weeks before outdoor transplanting. Germination temperature: 21-24 °C. Emergence generally requires 10-21 days. Keep a label to identify the selection after emergence. Space the young plants according to their development and observe the first flowers to adjust their placement in the garden bed. Prepare seedlings according to the species' needs, using a well-draining substrate and providing sufficient lighting after emergence. Plants raised indoors must be acclimated before being placed outside.
How do I adjust the watering?
The 'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native milkweed. Check moisture levels before watering and adjust the frequency based on rain, heat, and growth stage. Gently moisten the surface during germination so as not to displace the seeds. Once the plants are established, direct water toward the soil rather than onto the leaves. Avoid standing water and extreme swings between dryness and saturation. Containers generally dry out faster than garden beds and require more frequent checks.
How to choose your location?
The 'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native milkweed. Begin cultivating 'Red Butterfly' milkweed in an area prepared for sowing. To start cultivation: Sow indoors 8 to 10 weeks before outdoor transplanting. Germination temperature: 21-24 °C. Emergence generally requires 10-21 days. Keep a label to identify the selection after emergence. Space the young plants according to their development and observe the first flowers to adjust their placement in the garden bed. Prepare seedlings according to the species' needs, using a well-draining substrate and providing sufficient lighting after emergence. Plants raised indoors must be acclimated before being placed outside.
How to enjoy this selection?
The 'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native milkweed. Plan your planting according to the mature height to keep each plant visible and accessible. Repeat a few groups rather than scattering all the seedlings across a large space. Different seasonal blooms help extend the garden bed’s appeal. If you wish to harvest stems, keep some of the flowers in the garden and use a clean tool. Only let seeds mature if you are prepared for the self-seeding that may follow. This sheet concerns ornamental cultivation; do not assume a flower is edible based on its resemblance to a species used in cooking.
What are the key things to remember during the season?
The 'Red Butterfly' milkweed produces clusters of red, orange, and yellow flowers. This tropical milkweed is grown as an annual in Quebec; it is not a hardy native milkweed. At the start of the season, prepare your equipment and check the soil condition before setting your schedule. Adapt your interventions to the plants' growth stage rather than to a rigid date. After emergence, ensure sufficient light and space out the seedlings to avoid excessive competition. Gradually acclimate the plants destined for the outdoors. During growth, observe the foliage, moisture levels, and the possible appearance of pests. Identify the problem before choosing an intervention.

Wildlife and pets

Life,around your plants.

Reported toxicity

Yes