Butterfly Milkweed (Wildflowers of the Preserve at Shaker Village)

Butterfly Milkweed

Asclepias tuberosa

Summary ⁵

Asclepias tuberosa is a popular plant native to much of eastern North America. It is commonly called butterfly milkweed or just butterflyweed. As its name suggests, it is popular among butterflies and other pollinators for its bright orange color and ample supply of nectar. Butterfly milkweed is found in rocky, open areas in the Preserve.

Wildlife Interactions ⁵

Milkweeds act as a required host plant for the monarch butterfly and many other species like milkweed bugs, milkweed beetles, and milkweed tussock moths. They provide ample nectar for bees, wasps, butterflies and moths. Because of their popularity among insects, milkweeds also serve as important hunting grounds for predators like spiders and praying mantids.

Similar Species ⁵

Butterfly milkweed may be mistaken for other species of milkweed before it flowers. It is generally shorter than common milkweed or swamp milkweed at only a few feet tall, with more slender leaves than common milkweed. Its identity becomes obvious after it blooms, being the only native milkweed with such a bright orange color.