Seeds - Butterfly Milkweed

For successful seedlings,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!

Butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a perennial plant highly valued for its stunning bright orange flowers that bloom in tight umbels atop upright stems, typically reaching up to 60 cm in height. Its narrow, glossy green leaves provide a beautiful contrast to the vibrant flower colour. Unlike common milkweed, this species is more compact and less invasive, making it perfectly suited for small gardens. Butterfly weed prefers well-drained soils rich in calcium and requires full sun exposure to thrive. It is also drought-tolerant once well established, making it an ideal choice for rocky or dry landscape designs.

Medicinal and Culinary Uses
The root of butterfly milkweed possesses antispasmodic, carminative, slightly purgative, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, tonic, and vasodilatory properties. Also known as "pleurisy root", its primary use in herbal medicine is to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with pleurisy. It promotes sweating, relieves spasms, and acts as an expectorant. However, precautions are necessary, especially for pregnant women, as this plant is not recommended for them. The root, harvested in the fall, can be used fresh or dried.

Ecological Role
Like common milkweed, butterfly milkweed is essential for the monarch butterfly, which lays its eggs on it and whose caterpillars feed on its leaves. Its nectar-rich flowers also attract a wide variety of pollinators, including butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, contributing to biodiversity in gardens. It plays a role in fostering ecological interactions without becoming invasive, allowing for safe introduction into landscape designs or pollinator gardens. Thus, butterfly weed adds colour and life while supporting pollinator populations and conservation efforts.

Butterfly milkweed seeds require cold stratification to ensure germination. See the cultivation notes below for more details.

Akène cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.