Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Milkweed) Unity Grown

Asclepias tuberosa, also called butterfly milkweed, is a durable perennial wildflower, widely known for its role in providing a vital source of food for the larvae of monarch and queen butterflies. Asclepias tuberosa grows to 18-24" tall, placing it among the shorter milkweed varieties. During the summer, bright orange clusters of flowers will appear, which turn to attractive seedpods in the fall. Set apart by its orange flowers and tolerance of drier conditions, butterfly milkweed is by no means the only option for supporting monarchs in your backyard.

Adaptable and resilient, butterfly milkweed grows best in direct sunlight and well-drained soil, yet can tolerate harsh, dry conditions. With value to not only butterflies but also hummingbirds and bees, Asclepias tuberosa makes for a great addition to pollinator gardens, but with its drought tolerance, also works well in meadows and rock gardens. The plant produces a milky, toxic sap, and toxicity to pets (dogs, cats and horses) should be noted when choosing a location for planting, though this sap also makes it tolerant to deer and rabbit browsing.

This butterfly milkweed selection was grown from seed here at Unity Church Hill Nursery.