Milkweed

Asclepias tuberosa

Milkweed is THE essential plant for monarch butterflies — it's the only plant monarch caterpillars can eat. Butterfly weed (A. tuberosa) produces clusters of brilliant orange flowers that attract monarchs, swallowtails, and dozens of other pollinators. By planting milkweed, you're directly helping save an endangered species.

Hardiness Zones

3-9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Low

Maintenance

Low

Mature Size

1-3 ft H × 1-2 ft W

Growth Rate

Moderate

Bloom Season

Summer

Bloom Color

Orange, Yellow, Red

Care Guide

Plant in full sun with well-drained soil. Drought tolerant once established — avoid overwatering. Don't use pesticides near milkweed (it harms monarchs). Let it self-seed for natural spreading. Don't transplant — it has a deep taproot. Cut back in late winter. Expect monarch caterpillars to eat the foliage — that's the whole point!