Color:

Butterfly Weed

Asclepias tuberosa

Perennial

Dogbane Family

Bright orange milkweed that attracts monarch butterflies. Native prairie plant. Also called pleurisy root. Essential for monarch lifecycle. Symbol of transformation. Important conservation plant.

Bloom Season

Summer

Habitat

Temperate

Where to Buy

Find local florists carrying Butterfly Weed

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Perfect For

Birthday

Care & Vase Life

Stays fresh for 5 to 7 days

when properly cared for

Sear cut stem ends to stop milky sap from flowing

Use warm water for initial conditioning

Keep away from ethylene-producing fruit

Handle carefully - stems can be brittle

Milky sap - sear stems immediately

Change water every 2 days

Lasts 7-10 days

Important for pollinators - consider leaving for butterflies

Fragrance Profile

Mild

Light, sweet fragrance similar to honey

Safety Information

Toxic to Cats

Toxic to Dogs

Toxic to Humans

Contains cardiac glycosides - all parts are toxic if ingested in quantity

Fun Facts

Essential host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars

Unlike most milkweeds, butterfly weed does not have milky sap

Native Americans used the roots to treat respiratory ailments

The scientific name Asclepias honors the Greek god of healing

Origin & History

Native to North America

Native to prairies and open areas throughout North America, butterfly weed has been used medicinally by Native Americans for centuries. Named for its magnetic attraction to butterflies, it plays a crucial role in Monarch butterfly conservation and has become a must-have for pollinator gardens.