Butterfly Weed Seeds-White Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) PERENNIAL

This Butterfly Weed variety, known as White Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), offers striking pure white flowers grouped in flat umbels atop sturdy stems. Originally bred as a cut flower, its irresistible attraction to butterflies is just an added bonus. Reaching heights of 3.5-4 feet, this low-maintenance perennial is easy to grow from seed and thrives in zones 4-10.

Butterfly Weed White Milkweed has long-lasting, white flowers that attract beneficial insects like butterflies and hummingbirds. These perennial plants are easy to grow from seeds and bloom for three to four months with a vanilla scent. Deadheading will promote a second bloom. 

Butterfly Weed seeds may have improved germination after a cold treatment. Dampen a paper towel, place the flower seeds on the towel and seal in a ziploc bag. Place the bag in the refrigerator for 3 - 4 weeks. After the cold treatment, sow Asclepias flowers seeds indoors early in the spring. Transplant seedlings outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Full sun is best and some shade is tolerated, though blooming time and color may suffer. Asclepias Ice Ballet makes a great garden flower or cut flower.

Growing Butterfly Weed Seeds: Young plants should be watered until they become established; mature plants can tolerate drought, and the roots will be damaged by excessively wet soil. Butterfly Weed grows slowly, and this plant may take 2-3 years to produce flowers. Though not invasive, this plant will eventually spread if left to drop its seed. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Deer avoid this plant. If aphids become a problem, dislodge them from the plant with a strong stream of water.
Harvesting Butterfly Weed: This makes a striking cut flower. Because the stems contain no milky sap, these flowers tend to have a longer vase life than most milkweed varieties. Cut the stems long, choosing flowers that have just opened.