Butterfly Weed

Asclepias tuberosa

Not to be confused with Tropical Milkweed (Asclepias curassavica) which has a reputation for hosting Ophryocystis elektroscirrha (OE), a protozoan parasite, is evergreen, and from Southern Sonora and Baja California.

Arizona is host to about 30 species of milkweeds (Asclepias) ranging from low desert to riparian corridors to grasslands and all the way up into pine forest zones.

Pay attention to where you’re buying a milkweed plant – large volume chain stores and some smaller nurseries treat plants with long lasting insecticides that can harm pollinators. Expect to see some aphids on milkweed plants most of the time; the absence of aphids may be an indicator that the plant has been treated with pesticides. If in question, ask the staff, although they may not be able to answer with certainty.

Aphids are not harmful to the plant and you should expect them on milkweeds in your garden. They also provide a food source for predators and a true ecological balance can only be achieved if you let nature balance the equation.

Flowers: J F M A M J J A S O N D
Status: Native
Origin: Southeastern and Central Arizona in habitats ranging from wetlands, to disturbed roadsides, and openings in oak woodlands.
Family: Asclepiadaceae
Size: 2′
Sun: Part sun to part shade
Watering: Moderate
Growth Rate:
Soil: Well drained preferred
Temperature: Hardy to -30 F
Pruning:
Disease and Pests:
Uses: Host for the Monarch and Queen butterflies.
Notes: This is a montane milkweed. Will reseed in the landscape. This plant tends to die back to an underground tuber in the winter so good drainage should be provided to avoid rot.

Resources

• Spadefoot Nursery
• Arizona Native Plant Society

Smart Plant Tags

Gardens and Landscapes: Transform your garden into a gallery of personalized narratives, providing valuable information to both seasoned gardeners and curious visitors.

Public Spaces and Parks: Enhance the educational aspect of public spaces by introducing engraved tags. Create interactive learning experiences that engage and inform visitors about the diverse flora and fauna in the area.

Commercial Landscapes: For businesses looking to add a touch of sophistication to their outdoor spaces, and to communicate your commitment to nature.

Nature Reserves and Conservation Areas: Support conservation efforts by providing informative markers in nature reserves. Raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and conservation.

Educational Institutions: Create interactive outdoor classrooms by incorporating our tags into educational institutions. Foster a love for nature and a thirst for knowledge among students of all ages.

You can purchase our tags at CactusShackStudio – check it out!

Please leave this field empty

Oh, hi there! 👋
It’s nice to meet you.

Sign up to receive notifications of new content and sales.

This field is required.

We don’t spam or sell your info!

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.