The brilliant orange color of the Butterfly Milkweed makes it one of the most interesting looking wildflowers of the prairie. Butterflies, attracted by the vivid color, cluster over its blossoms vying for a spot to drink nectar. Wearing a bright orange shirt during its blooming season, will result in being mobbed by butterflies looking for a treat! Native Americans used the roots both for food and medicinal purposes. In fact, one of the common names for Butterfly Milkweed is Pleurisy Root.