Asclepias tuberosa aka Butterfly Milkweed
Taxonomy
Common names
Butterfly Milkweed, Butterfly Weed, Pleurisy RootHow to care for Butterfly Milkweed
Difficulty
Caring for Butterfly Milkweed is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
Water
Butterfly Milkweed should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
When growing Butterfly Milkweed, it is important to pay attention to the soil type you are using. This plant is very sensitive to dry soil and needs a potting soil that retains moisture. A good soil should still be well-draining and contain lots of organic matter. Coco coir or sphagnum moss are great options to provide the Butterfly Milkweed with the nutrients and moisture it needs. The added organic matter will also help the soil retain water and prevent the Butterfly Milkweed from drying out too quickly. Before planting, make sure to mix compost or manure into the soil for extra nutrients. Also, make sure to water the Butterfly Weed regularly, making sure to keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy. With the correct soil and watering regimen, the Butterfly Milkweed will thrive and bring lots of beauty to your home.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Butterfly Milkweed prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Butterfly Milkweed is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Fertilizer
The Butterfly Milkweed is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Butterfly Milkweed as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Butterfly Milkweed’s native range is N. America - S. Ontario and New York to Minnesota, south to Florida and Colorado.
More info:
Wikipedia