How to Grow Butterfly Weed

Asclepias tuberosa Germination Information

Asclepias tuberosa is the botanical name for Butterfly Weed
How to Sow Asclepias tuberosa:

• For best results, sown indoors at alternating temperatures of 68° and 86°
• Sow at a depth of 4 times the size of the seeds
• Expect germination in 15-20 days
• Seeds can also be sown outdoors in situ during spring or summer (up to two months before first frost)
• When sowing seed outdoors, we recommend a maximum planting depth of 4X the width of the seed

How to Grow Asclepias tuberosa:
Spacing:  Space 8-12 inches apart in full sun

Soil: Site in a sandy, well-drained soil

Transplant: Transplant when there are at least two sets of true leaves, being careful while doing so as it resents being disturbed

Appearance and Use:

Situate this perennial in borders and wildflower gardens to enjoy its colorful floral display and to attract bees and butterflies to the garden. The plant grows 3 feet tall by 12 inches wide and boasts flat, 1-2 inch diameter clusters of orange, orange-red, or yellow flowers. These fragrant flowers appear in July and August. The stems ooze a milky sap when broken. Slender, hairy, 4-5 inch long leaves line the stem

About Asclepias tuberosa:
Pronunciation:  a-skle’pe-us tu-ber-o’så
Lifecycle:  Perennial
Origination: Asclepiadaceae; native to the United States and Canada
Common Name: Butterfly Weed