Butterfly Weed Seeds (Asclepias tuberosa)
Grow a North American native milkweed known for vivid orange summer flower clusters and strong value in pollinator gardens. Asclepias tuberosa is a sun-loving perennial with a deep root system and is suitable for native borders, meadow-style plantings and dry, well-drained garden sites.
Choose your seed count: Select 35, 75 or 150 seeds from the options on this page. Flower timing, height and shade of orange can vary with genetics and growing conditions.
Why Grow Butterfly Weed
- Native milkweed species used by monarch caterpillars as a host plant
- Orange flowers provide nectar for butterflies, bees and other pollinators
- Established plants tolerate dry conditions well when drainage is good
- Long-lived perennial habit in suitable climates
What You’ll Receive
| Species |
Asclepias tuberosa |
| Common names |
Butterfly Weed, Orange Milkweed |
| Quantity |
Your selected seed-count variant |
| Light |
Full sun |
| Soil |
Well-drained soil; avoid persistently wet sites |
Planting & Growing
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Cold preparation: A period of cool, moist stratification commonly improves spring germination. Fall sowing can provide natural winter exposure where conditions are suitable.
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Sow shallowly: Cover seeds lightly and keep the seedbed evenly moist while germination begins.
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Choose full sun: Give plants an open, sunny location for compact growth and flowering.
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Prioritize drainage: Butterfly Weed develops a substantial taproot and performs best where excess water can drain away.
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Water while establishing: Keep young plants from drying out completely. Established plants generally need less frequent watering.
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Be patient: Young plants may spend substantial energy establishing roots before producing a mature flower display.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many seeds are included?
Choose the 35-, 75- or 150-seed option before adding the product to your cart.
Does Butterfly Weed support monarch butterflies?
Yes. Asclepias tuberosa is a milkweed species whose foliage can serve as a host plant for monarch caterpillars, while its flowers also provide nectar for adult pollinators.
Do the seeds need cold stratification?
Cool, moist stratification is commonly used to improve and synchronize germination. Fall sowing can also expose seed to natural winter conditions.
Will it bloom the first year?
First-year flowering is not guaranteed. Plants grown from seed often devote significant energy to root establishment before reaching a mature bloom cycle.
What conditions does Butterfly Weed prefer?
Full sun and well-drained soil are the priorities. Once established, it is comparatively tolerant of dry conditions.
Can Butterfly Weed be transplanted?
Young seedlings can be transplanted carefully, but the species develops a deep taproot and generally prefers to remain undisturbed after establishment.
