You’ve probably heard of butterfly milkweed, but you may not know where to find it. This plant is native to eastern and southwestern North America, but it has gained notoriety as a plant that attracts butterflies. Its nectar-rich flowers provide a plethora of benefits to butterflies, but what makes it so special is its attraction to them. Here are some reasons to grow butterfly milkweed in your yard.
The plant’s flowers are orange with large flat-topped clusters of small flowers. The blooms are watery and can be used in cut flower arrangements. This perennial is a host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars. It’s the only milkweed that doesn’t contain milky latex. You can also harvest the seed pods and dry them for arrangements. The flowers bloom from June to September. The plant itself is a perennial, growing up to two feet tall.
Butterfly milkweed is a great plant for attracting pollinators and beneficial insects. You can grow it from seeds, but it will take at least two years to establish itself. It’s hard to move because of its deep tap root. It was originally used for treating lung inflammation. Its bright orange flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including butterflies. Butterfly milkweed looks great in sunny borders and prairies. If you’re not sure about where to grow it, consider planting individual plants.
In addition to being a host plant for Monarch butterflies, butterfly milkweed is a source of nectar for many types of butterflies. Unlike its cousin, Common Milkweed, butterfly milkweed is not toxic to humans. It has a shrub-like habit. In addition to attracting Monarchs and other butterflies, Butterfly Milkweed is also a favorite of other pollinators. It pairs well with Little Bluestem and Purple Prairie clover.
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