Butterfly Weed
The Monarch's Favorite Snack
Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is the most garden-friendly milkweed available. Unlike its weedy cousins, it forms a tidy, permanent clump that does not spread aggressively. In mid-summer, it erupts with flat-topped clusters of brilliant, tangerine-orange flowers that are absolutely covered in butterflies.
Why You Need It:
- Save the Monarchs: Essential food for Monarch caterpillars.
- Drought Proof: Thrives in hot, dry, sandy soils where other plants die.
- Vibrant Color: The intense orange color is rare in the perennial garden.
Planting Tips:
Requires Full Sun and well-drained soil. It has a deep taproot and hates being moved, so choose its spot carefully. It is very late to emerge in spring, so mark the spot so you don't accidentally dig it up!
Type
Native
benefits
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Flowers
Attracts:
Butterflies, Bees
Soil Type
Well-Drained / Sandy
Sun Light
Full Sun
Our Landscape Designer's Take
The Monarch Magnet: This isn't just a plant; it's a migration station. Butterfly Weed is a critical host plant for Monarch butterflies passing through Michigan. We often install these in "Native Pollinator Gardens" alongside Blue Vervain and Coneflowers.
Soil Problem Solver: Have a dry, sandy spot where nothing else grows? Maybe near a hot driveway or in New Buffalo sandy soil? This plant loves it. Its deep taproot finds water where other plants wither. The vibrant orange flowers are unique—very few native plants offer this intense "safety orange" color, making it a focal point in any flowerbed.
