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Butterfly weedBotanical Name: Asclepias tuberosa
Plant Family: Dogbane family (Apocynaceae) Description: With its compact habit and bright orange flowers, butterfly weed is a great addition to perennial beds and mixed borders. Grows from 1 - 2 ft. New growth tends to emerge late in the spring. Plants are easily grown from seed, but are somewhat slow to establish and may take 2-3 years to produce flowers. Butterfly weed does not transplant well due to its deep taproot, and is probably best left undisturbed once established. Growing Conditions: Undemanding, grows in rocky, sandy, and dry soil. Prefers full sun. When planting in heavy clay soil, dig to a depth of at least 6 inches and amend with compost or sand to allow the taproot to establish deeply. Bloom Time: Jun - Aug Bloom Color: Orange Benefit to pollinators/wildlife: Most milkweed species are hosts for the monarch butterfly. Butterfly weed is highly attractive as a nectar source for a variety of pollinators. Native Status: US native, PA native Location in habitat: Pollinator Demonstration Garden, Monarch Waystation |