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Butterfly Weed
Asclepias tuberosa (Asclepiadaceae)
An extremely hardy, long-lived perennial native to North America. The magnificent bright orange flowers are concentrated in compact clusters at the top of branching stems. The flowers produce a large quantity of nectar which attracts butterflies throughout the growing season. Requires a very well-drained sandy or gravelly soil in full sun. Butterfly Weed may take up to two years to become established from seed.
Average planting success with this species: 50%
Height: 1-2 feet
Germination: 30-90 days
Optimum soil temperature for germination: 65F-75F
Sowing depth: 1/16"
Blooming period: June-September
Average seeds per pound: 87,000
Seeds/Pkt: 110
Seeding rate: 10 lbs. per acre
1 oz Covers: 272 sq. ft.
Suggested use: Rock gardens, roadsides, mass plantings, borders.
Miscellaneous: Produces a very deep taproot making transplanting difficult. The stem, when broken, does not produce the milky white sap characteristic of this plant family. Once established is very dependable. |