Description
A magnet for pollinators, this North American native perennial valued for its summer flowers in brilliant shades of orange to red. The flowers of this Asclepias are an important nectar source for many butterflies, and the Monarch butterfly caterpillar feeds on its leaves. Also called Pleurisy Root in reference to its historic use in treating lung ailments, Thomas Jefferson included this species in a list of native medicinal plants in his book, Notes on the State of Virginia (1780s). Jefferson-documented: This plant was documented by Thomas Jefferson in his Garden Book, Notes on the State of Virginia, or other writings.
Native Distribution: All US states except: AK, ID, MT, ND, NV, OR, WA, WY
Sow Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date at 70˚F. For improved germination, provide 4 weeks of cold, moist stratification before sowing. Transplant to 3" pots once they have several true leaves, then harden off and transplant outdoors after last frost. Alternatively, direct sow seeds outdoors in fall. Approximately 40 seeds per packet.
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