Pronunciation: [t͡ʃˈɪɡəflˌa͡ʊə] (IPA) 
Chiggerflower is a botanical name for a type of sunflower that grows in the southeastern region of the United States. It is spelled as /ˈtʃɪɡərflaʊər/, where the "ch" sound is pronounced like "ch" in "choose," "i" like "i" in "bit," "g" like "g" in "get," "a" like "a" in "father," "r" is silent, "f" like "f" in "father," "l" like "l" in "ladder," "ou" like "ow" in "how," and "er" like "er" in "her".
Chiggerflower refers to a term primarily used in the southeastern United States to describe a type of flowering plant scientifically known as Asclepias tuberosa. It is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the milkweed family, commonly found in open, sunny areas such as meadows, prairies, and roadsides.
The chiggerflower is characterized by its striking and vibrant orange or yellow flowers, which typically bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are arranged in dense clusters at the tops of tall, erect stems, and each blossom consists of five petals that form a distinctive crown-like shape. In addition to its captivating appearance, the chiggerflower is also known for its sweet fragrance, attracting various pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other insects.
Apart from its visual and aromatic appeal, the chiggerflower holds ecological significance. It serves as a vital food source for several butterfly species, including monarchs, whose caterpillars feed on the plant's foliage. The chiggerflower also plays a role in supporting other pollinators, contributing to the ecosystem's overall biodiversity.
While the term "chiggerflower" is not widely recognized outside of the southeastern U.S., it is a regional name that has become synonymous with Asclepias tuberosa due to the plant's prevalence and cultural significance in the area.
