This rugged bushy species features large, flat-topped clusters of bright-orange flowers throughout summer. Butterfly weed attracts many butterflies and other pollinators.
Although it can be toxic if not properly prepared, Native Americans used butterfly weed historically as a medicinal plant and for its tough fibers in making cords and coarse cloth. Later, the roots were known as “pleurisy root” and used into the 20th century to treat lung and bronchial conditions