Orchard Images Continued, Milkweed

The Milkweed has always been a fascinating plant, no doubt, named for the white liquid that leaks from the green seed pods when the flesh it scored.

 Much like the Monarch butterfly who feeds from it's sweet nectar, the Milkweed goes through a similar metamorphosis, but in reverse. It starts as a beautiful ball of pink flower clusters. With heavy green velvety leaves and heavenly scented flowers. Then the flowers fade and create a large seed pod that would rival any science fiction novel. 

Then these pods dry throughout the fall and burst to reveal the compact white feathery seeds. They've always reminded me of a birds feather structure. The wind carries the seeds on the wind like tiny fairies.

All images on Iron Oaks Farm Blog have been taken by Jennifer or Zach Sartell, unless otherwise noted, and are available for purchase. Please contact JenniferAnnMurphy@yahoo.com or visit our Etsy account at http://www.jenniferannmurphy.etsy.com/ .