Saturday, June 13, 2015

Wildflowers of Ainsworth: Indian Hemp

For some reason, in the past, I was unable to identify this plant, which grows abundantly along one edge of my field. I happened to stumble across something on the internet that suggested Indian Hemp, and Newcomb's Wildflower Guide describes it, so I guess I've finally figured it out.

2015-6-13. Indian Hemp plant
(Click on images to enlarge)

Also known as Common Dogbane, it is related to the Spreading Dogbane we've already seen. Its scientific name is Apocynum cannabinum — but it has none of the psychoactive properties of cannabis. It is poisonous to mammals.

Here is a Virginia Ctenucha visiting the blossoms.

2015-6-13. Indian Hemp blossoms

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