The Purple Milkweed is one of the
showstoppers of the Sierra Nevada meadows. It blooms in early July and grows up to
the elevation of 6500 feet. The milkweeds are the local food and
nectar source of the
Monarch
Butterflies and the Monarchs were common around these plants while I was
taking the pictures too. This is a great addition to the butterfly
garden. I find it rather satisfying when I read of
an association in a field guide and then find it to be the case in the
field as well.
High resolution
images of Asclepias cordifolia are available.