Orange Milkweed – Asclepias tuberosa Cost Cheap Online

Orange Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa or butterfly weed) boasts juicy, bright orange blooms that attract pollinators all summer long. Clusters of flowers are held upright on strong stems, serving nectar and pollen on a silver platter. Not only does it cater to Monarchs, but it is frequently visited by Black and Zebra Swallowtails, Sleeping Orange, Fritillary butterflies, and much more. The blooms last for over three months, and when they finish, crescent-shaped seed pods take their place. Flowers are followed by appealing seed pods in the fall that are filled with fluffy, wind-dispersed seeds. The blooms and milkweed pods are excellent in cut arrangements, but be aware of the toxic milky sap it exudes when cut. 

Milkweeds, including Orange Milkweed, are essential for the Monarch lifecycle. Their relationship includes more than just swapping nectar for pollination. Caterpillars exclusively feed on their leaves, which are filled with cardenolides. Cardenolides are stored in the bodies of Monarch caterpillars and butterflies as a defense against predators. Without Milkweed, we wouldn’t have Monarchs!

Vital Details:

Plant Size: 1-2′ tall x 1-1.5′ wide.

Light: Full sun (6+ hrs/day).

Water: Dry to medium moisture.

Hardiness: USDA zone 3-9 (Find your hardiness zone).

Pollinator Value: Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinating insects.

Host Plant To The Following: Monarch butterfly, Queen butterfly, Soldier butterfly.

Notable Features: fragrant, great cut flowers, long-blooming, deer resistant, multiple seasons of interest, low maintenance.

Pot Size: One quart

Plant Name: Asclepias tuberosa, butterfly weed