Question: I found what appears to be Asclepias purparescens along the Connecticut River near my family's land the other day, and …
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Question
I found what appears to be Asclepias purparescens along the Connecticut River near my family's land the other day, and just down the river - on my sister's land, i found these other milkweeds growing mostly in shade. The ones in the sunnier locations appeared to have all dead flowers. I know there are lots of crosses, so that might be what i have here. Down a little further there are lots of A. syriaca growing with the Joe-pyes.
Answer
Deear ho2cultcha, your plant here looks like Asclepias syriaca (common milkweed). This plant varies in its color, and sometimes produces purple-red petals. Asclepias purpurascens (purple milkweed) produces deep purple-red petals and hoods and has larger flowers (among other differences, such as the smooth exterior of the fruits). It would be great if you find Asclepias purpurascens because it is very rare in the northeast. Thanks for sharing your images.
