Below is my research plot on August 7th with the 9 varieties of milkweed. The tall green milkweed is in front of the grass, but you can't see a lot of green! That's because not many of this variety of milkweed survived in my plot. It also did not do well in Iowa State's research plots, so I'm assuming that it doesn't transfer well. I did see one egg on a plant that was about 3 inches tall, but by the next week the plant had died. I did replant some tall green last fall, so am hoping I have some come up this spring.
The tall green milkweed has a small greenish-white flower, long, skinny leaves, and grows to be 2-3 feet tall, so not so tall as the name suggests. Basic information and photos are available at: http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/tg_milkweed.htm
Prairie Moon Nursery's photos give you idea of what Ascelpias hirtella looks like: https://www.prairiemoon.com/seeds/wildflowers-forbs/asclepias-hirtella-tall-green-milkweed.html
Prairie Moon Nursery's photos give you idea of what Ascelpias hirtella looks like: https://www.prairiemoon.com/seeds/wildflowers-forbs/asclepias-hirtella-tall-green-milkweed.html
The purple milkweed has beautiful deep purple flowers, and grows to 4 feet tall. I was introduced to this species at Neal Smith National Wildlife Center, and would love to have it in one of my flower beds. It is not invasive, so would be a good selection for home gardens, if you can find it! Go to the North American Butterfly Association's web site for a photo and information:
http://nababutterfly.com/purple-milkweed/
My next blog will be about the monarch's migration to Mexico.
My next blog will be about the monarch's migration to Mexico.
