Asclepias tuberosa is a species of milkweed native to eastern North America. It is a perennial plant growing to 0.3–1 metre (1 ft 0 in–3 ft 3 in) tall, with clustered orange or yellow flowers from early summer to early autumn. The leaves are spirally arranged, lanceolate, 5–12 cm long, and 2–3 cm broad.
Family:
Apocynaceae (Dogbane)
Height:
1.5 to 2 feet
Leaves:
Alternate, hairy, and lance-shaped, widening at tip
Flower:
Bright orange flat-topped clusters, 2 to 3 inches wide
Bloom time:
June-September
Nicknames:
Butterfly Weed, Orange Milkweed, Pleurisy Root, Windroot
Habitat:
Upland prairies, sites with deep loam or sandy loam
Wildlife Benefits:
Nectar source for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.
Can I plant this in my garden?
Butterfly milkweed prefers sunny gardens that are dry or well-drained. It is great flower to plant to attract pollinators.
References:
https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/btf_milkweedx.htm
Family | Apocynaceae |
---|---|
Habit | Forb |
Origin | native |
Life cycle | perennial |
Flower | orange |
Bloom time | (6) June, (7) July, (8) August, (9) September |
*sites | Keller Golf Course, Lake Phalen, Snail Lake |