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Many of Wisconsin’s milkweeds are in bloom!![]()
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Wisconsin is home to 13 native species of milkweed, five of which are currently listed as endangered, threatened, or of special concern.![]()
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Perhaps the most recognizable species is common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), widespread and easily recognized by its round clusters of small, pink to purplish flowers. This native perennial is well known for its vital relationship with monarch butterflies, whose caterpillars rely exclusively on milkweed as their sole food source. While milkweed is toxic to most animals, monarch caterpillars feed on it, which provides them—and the adult butterflies they become—with protection from predators.![]()
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Did you know that female monarchs also lay their eggs on other milkweed species? This, of course, depends on the time of year and the availability of the different milkweeds in various habitats. Here at the Nature Center, we've observed three additional species of milkweed in bloom that may have attracted their attention.![]()
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Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) thrives in wet habitats and along bodies of water. It typically features a single long stem that branches near the top into several flat flower clusters. The flowers have five upright white petals and five downward-curving bright pink petals.![]()
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Butterfly milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) prefers well-drained soil and is characterized by its clusters of vibrant orange flowers. As its common name suggests, the nectar-rich blooms are especially attractive to butterflies, as well as other pollinators such as hummingbirds. Unlike most milkweeds, this species’ toxic sap is not milky, instead it’s clear.![]()
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Poke milkweed (Asclepias exaltata) is a tall species commonly found in woodlands and along the forest’s edge. Its pale green to purplish flowers are arranged in large, drooping umbels. The flowers are distinctive, featuring five petals that bend downward and a central crown with claw-like structures, known as “horns.”![]()
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What signs of summer do you see? Visit us for a hike or take a walk around your neighborhood looking for cyclical events influenced by seasonal changes.![]()
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Photo: Stephanie Briand, ALNC![]()
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#PhenologyUpdate #Milkweed #WIEnviroEd #NatureIsEverywhere #NatureIsForEveryone #EveryBodyOutside
