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Butterfly Weed

Botanical Name
Asclepias tuberosa
Min Zone
3
Max Zone
9
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

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