Asclepias purpurascens

Purple Milkweed

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Family: Apocynaceae

Mid-Atlantic bloom time: May - June

Leaves of Purple Milkweed are more strongly veinated than Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), and its umbels form primarily in the upper part of the plant. Within each flower, the 'horns' are short and horizontal, well below the tips of the 'hoods'.

The nectar of Purple Milkweed's flowersattracts long-tongued bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators.

The genus name Asclepias refers to the Greek god of medicine Asklepios.




20 June 2014
Manassas National Battlefield Park, Manassas, VA
20 June 2014
Manassas National Battlefield Park, Manassas, VA
20 June 2014
Manassas National Battlefield Park, Manassas, VA
 




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