Zone: 3-9 Native
Height: 30-90 cm. (1-3 ft.)
Spread: 30-90 cm. (1-3 ft.)
Growth: Oval bush with multiple sturdy stems emerging from crown
Flower: Clusters of orange to red and, rarely, yellow small stars; long bloom period late summer into fall
Foliage: Bright green, lance-shaped leaves
Environment: Full sun; will tolerate some shade; minimal water; prefers sandy-silty soil that drains well; tolerates poor, rocky soil
Seed: Large, ornamental seed pods split open to release brown seed with silky parachutes that drift with the wind (will reseed prolifically where happy)
Garden locations: Sunny perennial beds, Butterfly garden
Other: Difficult to transplant unless very young due to deep taproot
Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly weed)
Beloved by insects and especially butterflies, but avoided by deer and other herbivores. Asclepias is very showy and low maintenance.
