JENNY'S GARDEN                                                             

Asclepias Tuberosa 'Hello Yellow'
(Butterfly Milkweed, Butterfly Weed, Pleurisy Root)

Family:  Asclepiadaceae
Origin: Native to South Ontario and North America
Light: Full sun
Height:  1.5-3' 
Spread:   1-2'
Blooms:  Showy, vibrant golden yellow, flat-top, terminal, mid-Summer
Foliage:  Herbaceous, narrow, lance-shaped
Seedpod:  Pale brown, papery, explodes with ripe
Soil:  Well-drained, sandy, mildly acidic, drought tolerant
Water:  Low
Fertilizer:  As needed
Propagation:  Seeds, cuttings 
Uses:  Background, hummingbird garden, butterfly garden, perennial border,  fresh cut flowers, dried floral arrangement, meadow setting
Insects/ Diseases:  Watch for aphids
Caution:  Sap may cause skin irritation

Comments:  Asclepias tuberosa 'Hello Yellow' or Butterfly Milkweed or Butterfly weed or Pleurisy Root is a rare herbaceous perennial with an erect  growth habit.  It is a native of south Ontario and various states of North America.  In early Summer Asclepias tuberosa 'Hello Yellow' produces beautiful flat-topped vibrant golden yellow flowerheads followed later by green seedpods with white silky hairs when ripe would burst open and self sow readily.  Hummingbirds, bees and butterflies are magnetized by the nectar-rich blossoms.  It is a host plant for the Monarch caterpillars.  Butterfly Milkweed Hellow Yellow is easily propagated from seeds, cuttings or tuberous root divisions.  It is sun-loving and dwells best in well-drained acidic soil.  Pleurisy Root Hellow Yellow is low maintenance and tolerate drought conditions.  It has a deep tap root and resent being moved so plant in permanent location.  Deers would not go near it.  Mass plant for a terrific view in the Summer perennial bed or for a butterfly or hummingbird garden.  Asclepias tuberosa 'Hello Yellow' can also be container grown. 

USDA Hardiness Zones : 3-9