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Description
Asclepias tuberosa is a species of milkweed native to eastern North America. It is a perennial plant growing to 0.3–1 metre (1 ft 0 in–3 ft 3 in) tall, with clustered orange or yellow flowers from early summer to early fall. The leaves are spirally arranged, lanceolate, 5–12 cm long, and 2–3 cm broad.
This plant favors dry, sand or gravel soil, but has also been reported on stream margins. It requires full sun.
It is commonly known as butterfly weed because of the butterflies that are attracted to the plant by its color and its copious production of nectar. It is also the larval food plant of the Queen and Monarch butterflies. Hummingbirds, bees and other insects are also attracted.
Propagation
Most easily propagated by seed. Sown outdoors after frost, a plant will flower and produce seed in the third year. Difficult to transplant once established.
GROWING INFORMATION
DAYS TO GERMINATION:
14-21 days at 65-70°F (18-21°C)
SOWING:
Transplant (recommended) - Sow 7-9 weeks before last frost. Sow 1/4" deep into a seed starting mix. Begins taproot growth upon germination. Do not allow to become pot bound at any time as plants will deteriorate rapidly. Transplant into larger cell packs or 3-4" pots 3-5 weeks after sowing. Harden off and transplant outdoors after the last frost. Direct seed - Can be direct sown in the fall or spring.
LIGHT PREFERENCE:
Sun.
PLANT HEIGHT:
Varies.
PLANT SPACING:
12-24".
HARDINESS ZONES:
Varies.
HARVEST:
1/2 to 2/3 of flowers are open. If stems wilt after harvest, rehydrate in water for 24 hours. CAUTION: Milky sap may cause eye and skin irritation.
SOIL:
Well-drained, sandy loam to poor soil.
USES:
Cut flower. Borders, containers, and butterfly gardens.
SCIENTIFIC NAME:
Asclepias spp.
Will be shipped from Manhasset, New York. From a store called Flower Shop Inc.
Florist and greenhouse situated in Long Island, New York. Been in business for 19 years and counting.