Butterfly Weed

Common name: Butterfly Weed (Orange Milkweed; Chigger Flower)

Scientific name: Asclepias tuberosa

Dimensions:
  Flower: 3/8" (9 mm) wide
  Plant height: 1-2¼' (30-70 cm)

Blooming period: June-August

Habitat: Dry soil, fields, roadsides

Description: Bright yellow to orange-red flowers in solitary umbels on top of a leafy, hairy stem. Flowers have 5 reflexed petals; central crown divided into 5 nearly straight, erect hoods, with the lateral margins having an obscure "tooth" below the middle. Cluster is about 2" (5 cm) wide. Leaves 2-6" (5-15 cm) long, alternate, or opposite on the branches, linear to lanceolate. When bruised plant exudes juicy or watery, not milky, sap. Frequently grown in home gardens, the brilliant flowers attract butterflies, thus one of its names. Milkweed family. (July 8)