This vibrant native perennial is valued for its bold color, upright habit, and exceptional value to pollinators. Butterfly milkweed brings long-lasting summer interest to sunny gardens while playing an important role in supporting beneficial insects and wildlife.

Bright orange flower clusters bloom from early to mid-summer atop sturdy, upright stems. The vivid blooms are rich in nectar and attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Narrow, lance-shaped green leaves give the plant a clean, tidy appearance that works well in both naturalized plantings and more structured garden beds.

Well-suited for home gardens, Asclepias tuberosa thrives in full sun and prefers dry to average, well-drained soil. Unlike many other milkweeds, it does not tolerate wet conditions but excels in sandy or rocky soils. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and easy-care, making it a dependable choice for low-maintenance and pollinator-focused gardens.

Why choose Asclepias tuberosa – Butterfly Milkweed

Native pollinator plant: Highly attractive to butterflies and bees
Bold blooms: Bright orange flowers add strong summer color
Drought-tolerant: Performs well in dry, well-drained soils

Cultivating tips

Sun exposure: Full sun
Soil needs: Dry to average, well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low; avoid disturbance once established

Designs for your garden

Pollinator gardens: Supports butterflies and beneficial insects
Perennial borders: Adds vivid color and structure
Meadow plantings: Blends well into sunny, naturalized areas
Dry gardens: Ideal for sandy or rocky sites

Ecological benefits

Native habitat value: Supports pollinators and other wildlife
Monarch host plant: Larval food source for monarch caterpillars
Season-long nectar: Flowers provide extended pollinator support

Supporting Biodiversity

By including butterfly milkweed in your garden, you contribute to a healthier ecosystem by providing essential resources for declining pollinator populations. Its role in the monarch butterfly’s lifecycle makes it an especially valuable plant for conservation-focused and educational gardens.

Integrating Asclepias tuberosa into your landscape enhances both visual appeal and ecological function. With its easy care, drought tolerance, and significant benefits for pollinators, butterfly milkweed is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to make a positive environmental impact while enjoying vibrant summer blooms.

Plant appearance may vary by season and growing conditions. All plants ship healthy with established root systems.