Asclepias syriaca

(Common Milkweed) Great nectar source for many butterflies and a food source for Monarch caterpillars; 3-4 (occasionally taller) rhizomatous perennial stems with thick, light green foliage topped with dome shaped clusters of pinky-purple florets late June>August. Interesting seed pods are valued for arrangements, split open to release zillions of seeds, each attached to their own kite of silky threads. Full sun, drought tolerant (establish and abandon); most soils; deer and critter resistant. Almost too easy, can spread and become weedy.