United States: Butterfly Milkweed, Orange Milkweed, Pleurisy Root
Canada: Butterfly Weed
Other Regions: Chigger Flower, Indian Paintbrush
Description
Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant, upright clumping form
Size: Typically 1-3 feet tall
Leaves: Narrow, lanceolate, alternately arranged, bright green
Flowers: Clusters (umbels) of vibrant orange to reddish-orange flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators
Known Range
Native Range: Eastern, Central, and Southern United States
Cultivated Range: Widely cultivated throughout temperate regions for ornamental and ecological purposes
Care Requirements
Light: Prefers full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily)
Watering: Low water requirement; drought-tolerant once established
Soil: Well-drained sandy or loamy soil; tolerates poor soil conditions
Humidity: Can withstand a range of humidity levels, but prefers drier conditions
Temperature: Thrives in warm climates; hardy in USDA zones 3-9
Propagation: By seed (best germination with cold stratification); can also be propagated through root cuttings
Common Pests/Diseases: Aphids are a common issue; susceptible to leaf spot and mildew if overwatered
Additional Notes
Special Features: Essential plant for supporting monarch butterflies as a host and nectar source; has medicinal history as pleurisy root for its traditional use in treating lung conditions
Maintenance Level: Low; requires minimal care after establishment and occasional deadheading to promote further blooming