Butterflyweed
Asclepias tuberosa

Butterflyweed, also known as butterfly flower or butterfly milkweed, is a native perennial plant with clusters of tiny, five-petaled orange flowers. It blooms in late spring and early summer.

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A dry, brown seed pod has opened to reveal several seeds whose fluffy white hairs are beginning to carry them away on the wind.
The seeds of butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), also known as butterflyweed, have fluffy white hairs that help them scatter in the wind. (Photo by Will Parson/Chesapeake Bay Program)

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Appearance

Butterflyweed has clusters of tiny, five-petaled orange, reddish-orange or yellowish-orange flowers, which bloom in May to July. It grows 1 to 3 feet tall.

Reproduction and life cycle

Seed pods develop in late summer. Seeds have fluffy white hairs, which help them scatter in the wind. New seedlings grow in spring.

Did you know?

  • Butterflyweed is also known as butterfly flower and butterfly milkweed. It provides habitat for butterfly eggs and larvae.
  • Its bright coloring and copious nectar production attracts bees, hummingbirds and butterflies.
  • Native Americans used butterflyweed for fiber to make rope and cloth, as well as for medicinal purposes.

Sources and additional information

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