Contents
Description
Asclepias Tuberosa Hello Yellow, commonly known as butterfly weed, is a vibrant perennial plant that produces clusters of bright yellow flowers. This plant is native to North America and is a member of the milkweed family. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet and has a spread of 1-2 feet. The flowers bloom from mid to late summer and attract a plethora of pollinators, including butterflies and bees. The plant’s leaves and stems are also an important food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Asclepias |
Appearance
Butterfly weed is a striking plant that adds a pop of color to any garden. The plant has a woody stem and produces narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are 2-6 inches long. The flowers are arranged in clusters and are composed of five petals that are a bright yellow color. The flowers typically bloom from June to August and are followed by long, narrow seed pods that contain seeds with a tuft of silky hair. Butterfly weed has a deep root system that allows it to withstand drought and high temperatures.
Care Guide
Butterfly weed is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in most soil types. It prefers well-draining soil that is not too rich. The plant should be watered regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. After that, the plant can withstand periods of drought. Butterfly weed does not require fertilization, but a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth. The plant thrives in full sun and is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Butterfly weed is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, aphids and milkweed bugs can occasionally infest the plant. These pests can be controlled with neem oil or insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Butterfly weed is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. The plant is an important food source for many pollinators, including monarch butterflies. The plant’s deep root system makes it well-suited for drought-prone areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can butterfly weed be grown in containers?
A: Yes, butterfly weed can be grown in containers. However, the plant’s deep root system may require a large container to accommodate its growth.
Q: How often should butterfly weed be watered?
A: Butterfly weed should be watered regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system. After that, the plant can withstand periods of drought and should only be watered during extended dry spells.
Q: Does butterfly weed require fertilization?
A: Butterfly weed does not require fertilization, but a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
Q: How can I attract monarch butterflies to my butterfly weed?
A: Monarch butterflies are attracted to the nectar produced by butterfly weed’s flowers. Planting a variety of milkweed species and other nectar-rich plants can also help attract monarchs.
Related Plants
- Asclepias syriaca (Common Milkweed)
- Asclepias incarnata (Swamp Milkweed)
- Asclepias curassavica (Tropical Milkweed)
- Asclepias verticillata (Whorled Milkweed)
References
- Bonnie Plants. (n.d.). Butterfly Weed. Retrieved from https://bonnieplants.com/product/butterfly-weed/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Asclepias tuberosa. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a276
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Asclepias tuberosa L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ASTU
