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Hardy perennial
Apocynaceae
Perennials
Butterfly Milkweed
Asclepias tuberosa
Butterfly Milkweed: 75 cm high and 40 cm spread, sun exposure. Orange flowers in July-August. Zone 3; choose soil compatible with its moisture needs.
- Exposure
- Sun
- Life cycle
- Hardy perennial
- Hardiness
- Zone 3
Discover the plant
Common nameButterfly Milkweed
FamilyApocynaceae
GenusMilkweed
Speciestuberose
TypeHardy perennial
Botanical nameAsclepias tuberosa
For a sunny composition, Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) offers flowers in shades of orange. The foliage has shades of green, to be highlighted among different textures. The usual flowering period is July-August. At maturity, expect 75 cm in height and 40 cm in width, which suggests its use in the middle of a flowerbed and in group plantings.
The success of Butterfly Weed begins with its location: full sun, in suitable soil (well-drained, rather light; avoid water pockets around the crown). After planting Butterfly Weed, water enough to deeply moisten the root ball. Once established, let the surface dry between waterings and prioritize drainage, especially during thaws. A margin corresponding to its spread of 40 cm avoids having to move the clump in the first few seasons. The indicated hardiness zone is zone 3, to be assessed according to your garden's conditions.
In a Butterfly Weed planting, locate the base before winter and allow new shoots to emerge before working the soil nearby. Avoid unnecessarily moving a well-established butterfly weed; water needs should follow those of the chosen species. For associations, consider upright sedums, yarrows, and border sages in varieties with similar needs. By composing around its volume of 75 cm by 40 cm, you will preserve the visibility of its blooms (July-August) and circulation between plants.
Planting guide
From planting to establishment.
Spacing / density
15.75 in
Best planting time
Spring after the thaw or early autumn, allowing time for the roots to establish before the severe cold.
Propagation
Root cuttings. Seedlings do not guarantee the fidelity of a named cultivar.
Growing method
Butterfly Weed: Spring after the thaw or early autumn, allowing the roots time to establish before the deep cold. After planting Butterfly Weed, water enough to thoroughly moisten the root ball. Once rooted, let the surface dry between waterings and prioritize drainage, especially during thaws. Avoid unnecessarily moving a well-established butterfly weed; water requirements should follow those of the chosen species.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Care level
Routine maintenance
Watering
After planting Butterfly Weed, water enough to thoroughly moisten the root ball. Once established, allow the surface to dry between waterings and prioritize good drainage, especially during thaws.
Soil type
Well-draining, rather light; avoid water pockets around the collar
Fertilization
Fertilizer for flowering
Moisture
Low to moderate after establishment; drainage takes priority
Seasonal care
Butterfly Milkweed: locate the crown before winter and let the shoots regrow before working the soil nearby. During its flowering period (July-August), also watch out for damaged stems and neighboring plants that could overshadow the clump.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
Stable and perforated container, significantly wider than the root ball; size to be adapted to the format sold and the adult development.
To try Butterfly Weed in a container, choose a stable pot with drainage holes that is appropriate for the root ball and its future size (40 cm). Water should drain freely after each watering; check the root ball more often than if it were planted in the ground. Plan to protect the container in winter depending on your climate.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
30 inches (76 cm)
Width / spread
16 inches (40.5 cm)
Flower color
Orange
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Lapsed
Growth rate
Fast
Growth habit
Erected
Fragrance
Not documented for this selection
Bloom period
July-August
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Associations to consider for Butterfly Weed: upright sedums, yarrows, border sages. Choose varieties that tolerate sun and comparable moisture; allow each clump its adult space.
Plants to avoid
Around butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), especially avoid neighbors that would cover its leaves or strongly compete with its root ball. Compatibility in terms of light, water, and size takes precedence over a list of so-called enemy plants.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
Where to plant Asclepias tuberosa?
Provide sun and suitable soil (well-drained, rather light; avoid waterlogging around the collar). Avoid unnecessarily moving a well-established milkweed; water requirements should follow those of the chosen species.
Where should I plant butterfly milkweed?
Expect approximately 75 cm in height and 40 cm in width at maturity. Roughly 40 cm between centers, to be adjusted according to the actual clump development. This size is suitable for use in the middle of a flower bed and for group plantings.
When does Butterfly Milkweed bloom?
The indicated period is July-August. The flower color is orange. The exact date and duration depend on the climate, the season, and the plant's establishment.
How to water and care for Butterfly Milkweed?
After planting butterfly weed, water enough to thoroughly moisten the root ball. Once established, allow the surface to dry between waterings and prioritize drainage, especially during thaws. Locate the crown before winter and allow new shoots to emerge before working the soil nearby.
Can one grow Asclepias tuberosa in a pot?
To try growing Butterfly Weed in a container, choose a stable pot with drainage holes, suitable for the root ball and its future size (40 cm). Water should drain freely after each watering; check the root ball more often than you would for plants in the ground. Plan to protect the container in winter depending on your climate.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Supporting wildlife
The bloom of Butterfly Milkweed attracts butterflies. To preserve these visits during July-August, avoid treating open flowers and ensure a succession of blooms around the plant.
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