Melinda Myers

Butterfly Weed

Botanical Name

Asclepias tuberosa

Hardiness

Zones 4 to 9

Height

18 to 36 inches

Width

12 to 24 inches

Flowers

Late spring thru late summer: red, orange, yellow

Light

Full sun

Soil

Well-drained, dry

Planting & Care

• Butterfly weed does well in dry, infertile soil
• Because of its deep taproot, dividing is not recommended
• Wait until spring to cut plants back
• Be patient, plants are slow to emerge in the spring
• In colder zones, apply a winter mulch to prevent frost heaving

Problems

Rot in poorly drained soils, rust, leaf spots

Varieties

• Gay Butterflies - reds, oranges, and yellows