Redring Milkweed Seeds, Asclepias variegata

Description

This species like most milkweeds has a deep root stock that helps the plant survive fire and drought. The plant grows to about 1 meter (3 feet) tall, sometimes taller, with 4-6 pairs of opposite leaves. The underside is lighter in color than the upper side and may have hairs on it. Flowers are waxy and white, frequently with reddish, pinkish, to purplish rings around the middle, hence the common name.  Inflated, but narrow, upright seed pods (follicles) are usually borne in pairs. The fruits of this plant resemble those of purple milkweed (A. purpurascens) and poke milkweed (A. exaltata). Broken leaves and stems produce milky latex.

Native to: AL, AR,  CT, DE, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, MD, MS, MO, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OK, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA, WV.