Milkweed, Butterfly

Asclepias tuberosa is a clump-forming wildflower with attractive, lance-shaped, dark green leaves. Mature plants will produce several hairy, erect stems that are branched in their upper portion. These flowering stalks will grow to a height of 3’ and are topped with several dense clusters (umbels) of flowers that are typically orange but can range from shades of yellow to shades of red. The ensuing seed pods are elliptical, up to 6" long, and seem oversized for the plant. They are very ornamental in their own right and are often used in dried flower arrangements. Asclepias tuberosa will attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, and is a larval host for the endangered Monarch.

Common Name: Milkweed, Butterfly

Latin Name: Asclepias tuberosa

Variety: Species

H x W: 1-2' x 1-2'

Light Requirements: Sun

Habit: Herb

Plant Uses: Leaves

Key Function: Ben attractor