Butterfly weed is a member of the milkweed family (Asclepiadaceae). The genus name Asclepias is named after the Greek god of medicine Asklepios. The species name tuberose refers to the tuberous (knobby and with swellings) roots.
Butterfly weed is found throughout the state of Texas but is more common in the eastern two-thirds. This species is widespread in the eastern half of the U.S. Pioneers and native Americans used boiled butterfly weed roots to treat diarrhea, asthma and other respiratory illnesses.
“Tropical milkweed itself is not 'bad. ' (It provides larval food for Monarchs in many places where it occurs naturally, such as across the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America.),” the scientists said in a statement released in January following the milkweed kerfuffle.. . . . .364011233947!]
