Butterflyweed (Asclepias tuberosa), found in most of the United States and part of Canada, has bright orange flowers that develop into pods that split open to release seeds spread by the wind on silky strands. Its copious nectar flow attracts many butterflies and is occasionally used by Monarch and Queen butterflies as a larval food. Once a recognized pharmaceutical, its tubers (described by the species name) were used to treat bronchial ailments, hence its common name, Pleurisy Root. Since many milkweeds have healing properties, the genus name celebrates Asclepias, a Greek god of medicine. This drought-tolerant pollinator-friendly plant with colorful flowers is an excellent landscape choice.
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