Asclepias tuberosa
butterfly weed
Apocynaceae

Characteristics: Sunburst yellow-orange inflorescences similar to the colour of monarch butterflies. Very distinctive, pretty plant that is exclusively fed on by monarchs. The plants themselves are poisonous which in turn makes monarch caterpillars and butterflies poisonous, providing protection from predators. Upright form. Opposite leaf arrangement. Long summer bloom.

Growing conditions: Wet soil, full sun. Drought tolerant.

Limitations: Toxic. Can become weedy if pollinated by monarchs (not an issue in Vancouver as there aren’t many here).