Pleurisy Root, seed

Asclepias tuberosa is a remarkable perennial wildflower prized for its brilliant flowers, ecological value, and long history of traditional use. Commonly known as Butterfly Milkweed, Butterfly Weed, Pleurisy Root, Orange Milkweed, and Canada Root, this North American native is one of the most attractive members of the milkweed family. The accepted botanical name is Asclepias tuberosa L., and it is sometimes referred to simply as Butterfly Weed in horticultural literature.

Native to much of Canada and North America, Butterfly Milkweed is renowned for its vibrant clusters of bright orange, golden-yellow, or occasionally red-orange flowers that appear throughout summer. The blooms are produced in dense, flat-topped clusters and provide a spectacular display in cottage gardens, pollinator gardens, native plant landscapes, and meadow plantings.

One of the most important features of Asclepias tuberosa is its role as a host plant for the Monarch Butterfly. The foliage serves as a vital food source for Monarch caterpillars, while the nectar-rich flowers attract a wide range of butterflies, bees, and beneficial pollinators. As a result, it is considered one of the most valuable plants for supporting biodiversity and creating wildlife-friendly gardens.

Historically, the thick tuberous roots were used by Native American peoples and early settlers to support respiratory health, leading to the common name “Pleurisy Root.” The species has a long ethnobotanical history and remains one of the most recognised medicinal plants of North America.

Growing to approximately 1 metre tall and 1 metre wide, Butterfly Milkweed thrives in full sun and prefers rich, well-drained, peaty soils. Once established, it is frost-tolerant and long-lived, though young plants benefit from protection against prolonged drought. Its deep taproot allows mature plants to become resilient and reliable performers in suitable conditions.

With its striking flowers, wildlife benefits, historical significance, and easy-care nature, Asclepias tuberosa is an outstanding addition to gardens seeking beauty, biodiversity, and botanical interest.