Perennial – Butterfly Weed

Butterfly Weed

Botanical name: asclepias tuberosa 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 1-3 ft in height with a 1-2 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 3-9 

Growth rate: reaches fully mature size in first growing season 

Foliage color: green 

Flower color: orange/red/pink 

Bloom time:  summer 

Pruning instructions: deadhead withered blooms and foliage as needed 

Propagation methods: propagate by seed sowing 

Landscape use: pollinator garden, edging, container plant 

Special features: attracts pollinators, deer resistant, cold-hardy 

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 2-4 inches of soil to dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring 

Best type of soil:  sand, loam 

Companion plants: coneflower, salvia, tickseed 

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no