Asclepias tuberosa - Milkweed

Asclepias tuberosa is a hardy tuberous perennial sought after for its exotic appearance and ease of cultivation. Its vermilion-orange star-shaped flowers arranged in umbels appear from the beginning of summer. In late winter, the fruits ripen and release seeds with numerous silvery and shiny bristles resembling a ball of cotton.

Its large elliptical blue-green leaves are evergreen in its native habitat, but may disappear in harsh winters. The leaves are spirally arranged along the stems, forming an upright clump 60 to 80 cm (24 to 32 in) tall with a spread of 50 cm (20 in).

Native to the southeastern United States, Asclepias tuberosa is widespread in dry American prairies and is easily cultivated. It is indifferent to soil type but prefers humus-rich, well-drained soil in a sunny location. It will find its place in sunny rock gardens or dry soil beds alongside rock garden plants or Irises.

With its nectar-rich flowers, Asclepias tuberosa attracts numerous insects, especially butterflies, which have earned it the nickname "Butterfly Weed".