September 26, 2012

It Came from the Swamp!

Another Greek god?  Absolutely!


Swamp milkweed is designated as Asclepias incarnata.  Asclepias comes from Asclepius, the god of healing. This makes sense because milkweed is known for its use in many healing remedies.  Incarnata refers to the somewhat flesh-colored blooms, and is related to the word "incarnate", which means "in the flesh".


Swamp milkweed is just one kind of milkweed.  As pictured below, it is generally pink, varying in shades lighter and darker.  


It is most at home in moist soil, has a stronger fragrance than you might expect, and is beloved of Monarch butterflies.  In fact, it is a crucial source of food for them, and they lay their eggs on this plant.  It grows wild, but there are many cultivated varieties as well.

It is also called Swamp Silkweed and Indian Hemp.

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