Asclepias purpurascens – Purple Milkweed – 5-Pint

Although this species looks like the common roadside milkweed, A. syriaca, it is actually an inhabitant of prairies and woodland/prairie edges. It also has darker, showier flowers and does not spread as aggressively as Common Milkweed, making it a great choice for garden use. Like most milkweeds it is a favorite nectar plant of adult butterflies, and Monarch butterfly caterpillars will feed on the foliage. You occasionally even see a ruby-throated hummingbird feeding from the flowers. Native to southeastern New York State, including Ulster County, but primarily in the southern part of the county.