Akène Seeds - Butterfly Milkweed

For successful sowing,
see the growing notes at the bottom of the page!

Butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa subsp. tuberosa) is a perennial plant much admired for its superb bright orange flowers that bloom in tight umbels atop erect stems, typically reaching up to 60 cm in height. Its leaves are narrow and glossy green, providing a beautiful contrast to the vibrant color of the flowers. Unlike common milkweed, this species is more compact and less invasive, making it perfectly suited for small gardens. Butterfly milkweed prefers well-drained, calcium-rich soils and requires a full sun location to thrive. It is also drought-tolerant once established, making it an ideal choice for rocky or dry landscapes.

Sociability Index : 1 to 2  → Indicates the plant's behavior in space and its interactions with other plants.

Medicinal and culinary uses
Butterfly milkweed root has antispasmodic, carminative, slightly purgative, diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, tonic, and vasodilatory properties. Known as "pleurisy root" in English, its primary use in herbal medicine is to alleviate pain and inflammation associated with pleurisy. It promotes sweating, relieves spasms, and acts as an expectorant. However, precautions are necessary, especially for pregnant women, for whom this plant is not recommended. The root, harvested in autumn, can be used fresh or dried.

Ecological role
Like common milkweed, butterfly milkweed is an essential plant for the monarch butterfly, which lays its eggs on it and whose caterpillars feed on its leaves. Its nectar-rich flowers also attract a wide diversity of pollinators, including butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, thus contributing to biodiversity in gardens. It also plays a role in promoting ecological interactions without becoming invasive, allowing it to be safely introduced into landscape designs or pollinator gardens. Butterfly milkweed thus brings color and life while supporting pollinator populations and conservation efforts.

Butterfly milkweed seeds must undergo cold stratification to ensure germination. See cultivation notes below for more details.

Akene cannot assume any responsibility for the use of plants for therapeutic purposes. Always seek advice from a professional before using a medicinal or edible plant.