Asclepias tuberosa 'Butterfly Weed'

Asclepias tuberosa is a vibrant native perennial known for its bright orange flower clusters that bloom through early to midsummer. Its upright form and fine textured foliage bring bold color and structure to sunny plantings while serving as a critical host and nectar source for butterflies.

Height & Spread: 18 - 24 in x 12 - 18 in

Bloom Time: Early to midsummer

Light Requirements: Full sun

Soil Preference: Dry to average well drained soil

Watering Needs: Low; drought tolerant once established

Deer Resistance: Deer and rabbit resistant

Native Status

This species is native to much of the eastern and central United States and plays an important ecological role in supporting pollinators and native wildlife.

WILDLIFE & INSECTS

Butterflies

• Essential host plant for Monarch caterpillars and a strong nectar source for adult Monarchs, Swallowtails, and Painted Ladies.

Bees

• Attracts native bees and bumblebees which forage for nectar and pollen from its dense flower clusters.

Spacing & Landscape Use

Spacing Recommendations

• Space 12 - 18 in apart to allow room for its upright clumping habit to develop without crowding.

Landscape Placement

• Ideal for sunny borders, native plantings, and meadow style gardens where it adds bold color and supports pollinator activity.

Companion Plants

• Schizachyrium scoparium (Little Bluestem) - Provides upright grass structure and seasonal color contrast alongside the bright orange blooms.
• Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower) - Extends pollinator interest into later summer with complementary upright flowers.
• Coreopsis verticillata 'Zagreb' (Threadleaf Coreopsis) - Offers fine textured foliage and long lasting yellow blooms that pair well in sunny plantings.
• Rudbeckia fulgida 'Goldsturm' (Black Eyed Susan) - Brings strong midsummer color and reliable performance in similar growing conditions.
• Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks' (Goldenrod) - Adds late season height and golden blooms that continue supporting pollinators.