Butterfly Milkweed

Butterfly MilkWeed

Waabigwan
Asclepias tuberosa

A brilliant native wildflower known for its vivid orange flower clusters that light up prairies and dry meadows throughout the summer. Unlike many milkweeds, Butterfly Weed has narrow leaves and does not produce milky sap, but it still plays a critical role in supporting pollinators.

From early to mid-summer, dense clusters of fiery orange flowers bloom atop sturdy stems, attracting a wide diversity of butterflies, bees, and beneficial insects. Its deep taproot makes it extremely drought tolerant and well suited for dry soils.

Waabigwan – The Butterfly’s Flower

Waabigwan is closely connected with butterflies across North America. Its bright flowers provide rich nectar sources while the plant itself serves as a host for Monarch Butterfly caterpillars. In many prairie landscapes, Butterfly Weed becomes one of the most active pollinator gathering places during the warm months of summer.

A Wildflower of Prairies and Dry Meadows

Butterfly Weed grows naturally in open prairies, sandy fields, rocky slopes, and dry meadows where it receives full sun and well-drained soil. Its deep root system allows it to survive drought and stabilize soil while supporting native insect populations.

Because of its long lifespan and striking color, Butterfly Weed is one of the most popular native plants for pollinator gardens and prairie restorations.

Growing Information

Height: 1–2.5 ft

Spread: 1–2 ft

Light: Full sun

Soil: Dry to average, sandy or well-drained soils

Hardiness: Zone 3–9

Growth Rate: Moderate (deep taproot, long-lived)

Best planted in prairie gardens, dry meadows, pollinator habitats, and sunny native plant beds.

Ecological Importance

Waabigwan:

Provides abundant nectar for butterflies, bees, and pollinating insects

Supports Monarch Butterfly caterpillars

Thrives in dry conditions where many plants struggle

Strengthens prairie and pollinator ecosystems

Larval host for
• Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)
• Milkweed Tussock Moth (Euchaetes egle)
• Queen Butterfly (Danaus gilippus)

Associated Prairie & Meadow Species

Common companions in natural prairie plant communities include:

• Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium)
• Purple Prairie Clover (Dalea purpurea)
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
• Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa)
• Smooth Blue Aster (Symphyotrichum laeve)
• Stiff Goldenrod (Solidago rigida)
• Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)

Planting these species together helps recreate resilient prairie ecosystems that support pollinators, birds, and beneficial insects.

Planting to Protect
Restoring to Thrive ?
Origin Native Plants ?

3.5 Inch Pots