You make our work possible. Please help us continue.

Donate Now

Open Today &ndashp; 8:30AM - 5:00PM

Growth Type Perennial
Hardiness Zones 4-9
Planting Conditions Full Sun
TJ Documented Plant No

Butterfly Weed, also known as Bloodflower, Swallow-wort, and Mexican Milkweed, is a native North American perennial that is especially valued for its summer flowers in brilliant shades of orange to red. It was recommended for gardens by Robert Buist in his influential work, The American Flower Garden Directory, published in 1839. He called it one of our finest wildflowers, and commented on its suitability for dry places.

Visit Monticello’s Online Shop to check for seeds or plants of Butterfly Weed.

Typical Blooming Dates: June into October
Blossom Color: Orange, Red
Location at Monticello: West Lawn Oval Bed