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Physical description: Butterfly weed is perennial plant with alternating
leaves that are 2 to 6 inches long and 0.25 to 1 inch wide. The
stems are topped by many-flowered umbels in spring. The vibrant
orange flowers are about 0.25 inches across, and they bloom in
spring.
Optimal growing conditions: This plant grows well in average, well-drained
soils in full sun. It is a good choice for meadow gardens because
it is drought tolerant, does well in dry and infertile soils,
and competes very well with grass. Butterfly weed cannot compete
with surface rooted trees.
Susceptibility to pests and diseases:
Butterfly weed is generally pest
free. However, leaf spots and rusts are sometimes present, and
crown rot can be a problem in wet, poorly drained soils.
Use: Butterfly
weed is very effective in butterfly gardens, borders, meadows
areas, prairies, or naturalized plant areas. It looks nice when
planted in groups along the roadside. This plant is also used
for attracting Aphrodite and Fritillary butterflies or in cut
and dried flower arrangements.
Additional Notes: It serves as one of the most important medicines
for broncho-pulmonic inflammations and catarrhs, and an agent
for re-establishing suppressed secretion of the skin. Also, in
acute chest diseases this plant is useful to control cough, pain,
temperature, to favor expectoration, and restore checked perspiration.
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