Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Perennial

Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa

 
Features
Upright plant with long narrow leaves. Clusters of brilliant orange flowers followed by a swollen seed pod. 
 
Culture
Well-drained soil in sun to light shade 
 
Cultivars
 
 
Mature Height
2-3 Feet
 
Size
Medium
 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
4 - 9 
 
Bloom Color
Orange
 
 
Bloom Season
July - August
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Insect Damage


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Aphids
 
Additional Notes
Division and transplanting of large plants is difficult due to the tap root system. Emerges very late in the spring. Attractive to bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Cut back in the spring and not in the fall.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic