How to Grow Butterfly Flower (Asclepias tuberosa): Milkweed for Monarchs and More

How to Grow Butterfly Flower (Asclepias tuberosa)

Butterfly Flower (Butterfly Weed, Milkweed) is a U.S. native perennial (east of Rockies) with brilliant orange mid-summer blooms atop 24–36 inch plants. Unlike other milkweeds, sap is not milky. Monarch caterpillars eat foliage; adults nectar at flowers. Great in beds, rock gardens, containers, and for cutting. Most parts toxic—keep from children/pets.

Propagation

Sow seeds ⅛–¼ inch deep directly or indoors 6–8 weeks early. Germinates 14–28 days (heat mat speeds). Also divide tuberous roots.

How to Grow Butterfly Flower

• Light: Full to part sun.
• Soil: Sandy, well-drained; hates heavy, wet clay.
• Water: Drought-tolerant; water only in extreme drought.
• Fertilizer: Light feed once or twice; high-phosphorus before bloom.
• Maintenance: Low. Dies back in fall; resprouts from tubers in spring. Blooms second year.

Bloom Time

Late spring to summer.

Pests & Diseases

Uncommon. Treat only if needed.