How to Grow Golden Parrot
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Golden Parrot
Asclepias tuberosa
flowerGolden Parrot is a stunning native North American wildflower known for its bright orange, red, and yellow clustered flowers that attract butterflies and pollinators. This herbaceous perennial produces vibrant blooms in summer and is highly valued for pollinator gardens and native plant landscapes. The plant features narrow, lance-shaped leaves and deep taproots that make it drought-tolerant once established.
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Example Golden Parrot timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Golden Parrot
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Golden Parrot blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Golden Parrot dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9, with best performance in zones 4-8
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Seed dormancy & stratification
4-6 weeks or overwinterSeeds require cold stratification to break dormancy. Seeds are small and hard-coated.
Provide 30 days of moist cold stratification in refrigerator before spring planting. Direct sow in fall for natural winter stratification.
Seedling emergence
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with first true leaves emerging. Slow initial growth is normal.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Germination can take 2-4 weeks after stratification.
Vegetative growth
6-8 weeks in first yearPlant develops narrow lance-shaped leaves and establishes a deep taproot system. Growth is steady but not rapid.
Maintain moderate moisture during first year. Protect from competition. No fertilizer needed; avoid overfeeding. Gradually reduce watering as plant establishes.
Flowering
6-8 weeks (June-August)Umbel clusters of bright orange, red, and yellow flowers appear at stem tips. Flowers attract numerous butterflies and pollinators.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage additional blooms, though leaving some flowers allows self-seeding. Minimal fertilizing; too much nitrogen reduces flowering. Ensure full sun for best color.
Seed maturation & dormancy
8-10 weeks; dormancy through winterFollicles develop containing silky-winged seeds. Plant gradually dies back in fall. Taproots overwinter underground.
Allow some seed pods to mature for self-seeding or seed collection. Cut back dead foliage after frost. No deadheading if saving seeds.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Generally harmless; tolerate or hand-pick if excessive. These are native insects beneficial for the ecosystem.
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Spray with water or insecticidal soap. Allow ladybugs and natural predators to control populations.
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Increase humidity with water spray. Ensure good air circulation. Use miticide only if severe.
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Improve air circulation and avoid wetting foliage. Remove infected leaves. Ensure well-draining soil to prevent moisture issues.
Uses
Monarch butterfly host plant
WildlifeGolden Parrot is a critical larval host plant for Monarch butterflies and other Asclepias-dependent insects. The milkweed helps caterpillars accumulate toxins from cardenolides that protect them from predators. [source]
Nectar source for pollinators
WildlifeThe bright, clustered flowers produce abundant nectar that attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other beneficial insects throughout the flowering season. [source]
Traditional herbal medicine
MedicinalHistorically used by Native Americans and early colonists as a remedy for respiratory issues and skin conditions, though modern clinical evidence is limited. [source]
Native plant restoration
HouseholdEssential for prairie restoration, pollinator gardens, and xeriscaping projects. Helps support native ecosystems and requires minimal maintenance once established. [source]
Cut flower arrangements
CraftThe vibrant clustered flowers make stunning, long-lasting additions to fresh or dried flower arrangements and attract attention in native plant gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Flowers can be cut fresh for bouquets in early morning when fully open. Cut stems back in late fall after foliage dies. For seed collection, harvest mature follicles in late summer/early fall when they begin to split. Seeds can be stored dry in cool conditions for next season's planting.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Golden Parrot's common name comes from the shape and bright coloring of its clustered flowers, which resemble a tropical parrot's plumage.
- 🌱 The plant's deep taproot can extend several feet into the soil, making it extremely drought-resistant but difficult to transplant once established; it's best grown from seed or young nursery transplants.
- 🌱 Asclepias tuberosa is the only orange-flowered milkweed species native to North America, making it a distinctive addition to native plant gardens.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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