Butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa ssp wolfsii)

LIMIT TWO PER CUSTOMER - orders for more than two will be adjusted

Description:  Perennial. Up to 1-2 ft height with multiple clusters of scarlet/orange milkweed-type flowers. Stems often die back to ground level, then resprout days/weeks/ ? months later, from a tuberous root. Frequented by Monarch butterflies, bees, and other insects.

Natural Habitat:  A pineland plant in Miami-Dade; elsewhere, open areas, sandy and dry fields.

Planting and Care:   Once established, seems to do best in well-drained soil, but should be watered often the first month or two. Grows and flowers best in sunny, open areas.  Expect periodic die-back, keep site free of thick duff and larger overshading plants.

Pros:  An excellent insect-attracting plant.  Beautiful flower clusters. Monarchs and Queen butterflies may lay eggs on it, and caterpillars will eat them, but prefer other milkweeds.

Cons:  Periodic die-back. Also, many report poor success in long-term establishment, which may be from planting non-South Florida plants or seeds. 

Note: These plants are planted in a potting soil/clay fragment mix for aeration; please be careful in removing them.