Asclepias tuberosa

Habitat: Dry woodlands, clearings, fields, pastures, and roadsides. Common throughout.

Milkweed is a great choice for a meadow garden, with showy orange flower clusters topping its upright stems. Very long bloom time. Politely self-seeds. Aphids and milkweed bugs are normal and harmless. Tolerates dry, hot conditions. Leave undisturbed once established. Late to emerge in spring

Note: Pair it with other plants like native, ornamental grasses and wildflowers, such as asters and purple coneflowers, to a create a butterfly habitat. In a perennial border, pair it with torch lilies or with cooler blues and purples, such as speedwell plants.