Nodding flowerheads of the Milkweed in July
Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) grows along roadsides and dry fields. It can reach three to six feet in height. The Milkweed’s broad, oval leaves are covered with a grayish fuzz on the underside. The flowers form spherical clusters at the top of the plant and near the uppermost leaves on the stem. The flowers can be rose, lavender, pink or purple colored. Most people recognize Milkweed by its gray-green, pointed seed pods, which can be four inches long.
The Milkweed is an ecologically important plant, serving as a host plant for many butterfly species, including the Monarch, both Tiger Swallowtail and Black Swallowtail, Painted Lady, American Lady, Red Admiral, Great Spangled Fritillary, and Hairstreak. The Milkweed is both source of nectar and site for egg-laying. Milkweed also attracts Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and Hummingbird Clearwing Moths. This seemingly ordinary plant plays an important role in the lives of many species of living things.
" said,
July 13, 2009 at 9:32 am07
I remember going with the family and the Porter grandparents in Vt. to dig dandilions, pick cowslips and milkweed to eat.
" said,
July 13, 2009 at 9:33 am07
I remember going with the family and the Porter grandparents in Vt. to dig dandilions, pick cowslips and milkweed to eat. This was a springtime ritual.