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Tuberous root
Apocynaceae
Ornamental bulbs
Asclépiade tubéreuse
Asclepias tuberosa
Product code : ASCLEPIADE-TUBEREUSE
Butterfly Weed produces brilliant orange flower clusters that brighten gardens throughout summer. Its lance-shaped foliage perfectly complements its colourful, natural appearance.
- Quantity
- 2 tuberous roots
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Life cycle
- Perennial
- Hardiness
- Zone 3
Discover the plant
Common nameButterfly Weed
FamilyApocynaceae
GenusAsclepias
Speciestuberosa
TypeTuberous root
Botanical nameAsclepias tuberosa
Reproducible seedsYes
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a brilliant perennial that produces magnificent clusters of vivid orange flowers from June to August above lance-shaped green foliage. Reaching 45 to 60 cm in height, it forms a colourful clump that brings warmth, movement, and a natural appearance to sunny landscapes. Its abundant flowering stands out equally well in perennial beds and wildflower meadows. Hardy to Zone 3 and well adapted to Quebec gardens, this species tolerates heat and drought once established. Its long taproot improves drought resistance but makes transplanting difficult.
Plant the tuberous roots in spring after all danger of frost has passed, approximately 5 cm (2 in) deep and 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in) apart. Butterfly Weed prefers full sun and light, sandy, or slightly rocky soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH and excellent drainage. Water after planting, then moderately until the plants are established. Afterwards, watering is only necessary during extended dry periods. A light application of compost in spring is generally sufficient. Choose the permanent planting site carefully, as the deep taproot does not tolerate disturbance well.
Ideal for pollinator gardens, wildflower meadows, naturalistic plantings, and sunny perennial beds, this milkweed pairs beautifully with coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, blazing stars, goldenrods, and ornamental grasses. It plays an essential role in supporting monarch butterflies, whose caterpillars feed on the foliage, while the nectar-rich flowers attract adult butterflies, bees, and many other pollinating insects. Leave a few seed pods on the plants to encourage natural reseeding and provide additional support for garden biodiversity.
Planting guide
Plant well.Grow beautifully.
Planting depth
5 cm (2 in)
Spacing / density
Space plants or bulbs 10 to 15 cm apart.
Best planting time
Spring
Propagation
Divide very young roots or grow from seed. Seed propagation remains the most common method for producing new plants.
Growing method
Plant the tuberous roots in spring approximately 5 cm (2 in) deep in light, sandy or slightly rocky, perfectly drained soil. Space the plants 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in) apart. Choose a location in full sun. Water after planting, then moderately until the plants become established. Avoid transplanting once established to preserve the deep taproot. Allow the plants to mature undisturbed for the best flowering display.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Neutral to slightly alkaline
Minimum temperature
-40°C (-40°F)
Care level
Easy
Watering
Water moderately during establishment, then only during extended dry periods. This species prefers relatively dry soils once established.
Soil type
Light, sandy or slightly rocky, perfectly drained soil. Avoid heavy or wet soils.
Fertilization
A light application of compost in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid rich fertilizers, which reduce flowering.
Moisture
Moist to moderately dry, always well-drained soil.
Seasonal care
Water only during extended dry periods. Cut back the dried stems in autumn or early spring. Leave a few seed pods to encourage natural reseeding and support wildlife. Avoid disturbing established plants.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
35 cm (14 in)
Suitable for containers in a free-draining mix; protect from frost when hardiness requires it.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
45 to 60 cm (18 to 24 in)
Width / spread
30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 in)
Flower color
Bright orange
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Deciduous
Growth rate
Moderate
Growth habit
Upright, clumping
Fragrance
Light fragrance
Bloom period
Brilliant orange flowers bloom throughout summer, attracting abundant butterflies, bees, and many other beneficial pollinators.
Fruiting
Seed pods
Harvest
Seed pods
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, blazing stars, goldenrods, and ornamental grasses make excellent companion plants.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
When should Butterfly Weed be planted?
Plant the tuberous roots in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Warm soil encourages rapid establishment and vigorous growth.
Why is Butterfly Weed important for monarch butterflies?
It is an essential host plant for monarch caterpillars while also providing abundant nectar for adult butterflies. Its presence directly supports their life cycle.
Can this plant be grown in containers?
Yes. A large, well-drained container placed in full sun provides excellent growing conditions. Avoid disturbing the roots once established.
Does Butterfly Weed require frequent watering?
No. Once established, this perennial is highly drought tolerant. Watering is only necessary during prolonged dry periods.
Why should Butterfly Weed not be transplanted?
It develops a deep taproot that does not tolerate disturbance well. Choose its permanent location carefully before planting.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Supporting wildlife
Butterflies and bees
For planting your bulbs
The right extras.Right here.
Bulb planters and planting tools
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Soils and amendments for bulbs
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