If you are like me, one of the great sights of summer is a flock of Monarch Butterflies dancing about the garden.  Their numbers have been diminishing over the past few years.  Many entomologists feel that this is due to loss of habitat, as we pave over and grass over many vital native ecosystems that traditionally have supported them on their long migration from Central Mexico.  One solution, with a good bit of data to support it, is to create a string of mini-environments of native plants as “refueling stations” for the Monarchs on their journey.   

One favored source of “fuel” (nectar) is the Butterfly Milkweed.  Asclepias tuberosa is a favorite of a number of pollinators.   It, along with the other milkweeds, forms an important link in the native ecology of the Midwest, being found from the Eastern Seaboard through to the Rockies.  In addition to its vital ecological role, Butterfly Milkweed is a gorgeous yet hardy, low-maintenance plant that will be an attractive addition to your garden.

Butterfly Milkweed blooms with a bright orange to reddish yellow flower from late spring to late summer.  It has narrow green leaves which serve as an important source of food for Monarch butterfly larvae.  It is hardy up through Zone 3, so you North Shore folks are in luck!  The plant grows to two to three feet, so it is best placed to the back of your beds.  It can be started from either seeds of cuttings.  We have a patch in our front which has gradually spread from spontaneous seeding.  If you are trying to germinate from seed, remember to put the seeds in a damp cool environment, like a moistened paper towel in a baggie in the fridge, for 4 to 6 weeks before planting.  Alternately you can sow the seeds outdoors in the late fall, covering with about ¼ inch of soil.  You may not see blooming the first year, however.  

Photo Credits: www.flickr.com(1), usda.gov (2)