Butterfly Milkweed
Herbaceous perennial reaching 30-90 cm tall with alternate, lance-shaped leaves. Produces vibrant orange flower clusters in summer, followed by slender seed pods. Prefers well-drained soils and full sun. Extremely drought-tolerant once established. Important nectar source and larval host for monarch butterflies. Attracts various pollinators. Deep taproot makes it difficult to transplant. Suitable for prairie gardens, butterfly gardens, and dry, sunny borders. Native to eastern and southern United States.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Orange
Bloom Time: Mid to Late-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun
Moisture: Dry to Moist-Drained
Phenology: Emerges late May after soil warms. Leaves fully developed by mid-June. Blooms late June through August. Pods develop August-September, releasing silky-tufted seeds October. Dies back completely after frost.
Wildlife Value: Essential host plant for Monarch butterflies; exceptional nectar source for butterflies and hummingbirds; seeds eaten by songbirds; deer resistant
Habit Over Time: Forms loose, upright clumps that remain polite and well-behaved, allowing plenty of space for neighboring plants. New stems emerge around the central crown but don't travel far, creating a gradually expanding presence that maintains clear boundaries.
Height: Medium (1-3 feet)