Green Milkweed (Asclepias viridiflora): green Minnesota wildflowers

Green Milkweed

Plant Info
Also known as:	Green Comet Milkweed
Scientific name:	Asclepias viridiflora
Family:	Milkweed (Asclepiadaceae)
Life cycle:	perennial
Origin:	native
Habitat:	sun; dry prairies, edges of woods, sandy soil
Bloom season:	summer
Plant height:	1 to 3 feet
USDA PLANTS database:	Minnesota county distribution map

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Flower:: Flowers are in a round cluster about 2 inches across. Individual flowers are pale green, ¼ inch across and ½ inch long with 5 petals. Sometimes there is a purplish tint to the flowers. Each plant has 1 to a few clusters, each arising from a leaf axil.
Leaves and stem:: Leaves are variable depending on the habitat. In dryer soils, they tend to be quite narrow, over 6 inches long and to 1 inch wide, folding up lengthwise some from the central vein. In moister soils, they are less than 6 inches long, wider and more oval shaped with a pointed tip. Leaves may have scattered hairs and the edges are usually a little wavy. Attachment is mostly opposite, though some leaves may be alternately attached. The main stem is covered in short matted hair and may be tinged purple. The plant tends to lean over.

More green wildflowers. Photos taken at Wild River State Park, Center City, MN July 2007

Have you seen this plant in Ramsey County, or have any other comments about it?