There were small, sporadic colonies of this milkweed, commonly known as Butterfly Weed [Asclepias tuberosa], in the scrublands near the old Reeves Schoolhouse.
Butterfly Weed, US 221, McDuffie County
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Tag Archives: Georgia Wildflowers & Native Plants
Oxeye Daisies, Wilkes County
In late spring and early summer, thousands of Oxeye Daisies (Leucanthemum vulgare) blanket the roadside ditches on Georgia Highway 17 between Washington and Tignall. Though these beloved plants are non-native, they’re naturalized in all 50 states and throughout most of Canada.
Late Purple Aster, Wayne County
Late Purple Asters (Symphyotrichum patens) can be found sporadically throughout South Georgia from late September until early November. They appear in a variety of habitats. I found this one, hosting a sulphur butterfly, in a ditch. There were only a half-dozen or so plants in the colony.
Durden’s Mill Pond, Emanuel County
This sign beckoned me to turn in, but besides turning around and snapping a few shots, I was unable to explore this local landmark as it’s private property.
The structure pictured above and the cabin below are all I saw, but there appear to be others on the surrounding property.
The mill pond is a tranquil landscape and a longtime favorite of fishermen.
Butterfly Weed, Ben Hill County
In the milkweed family, Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is one of the showiest and most memorable South Georgia wildflowers. It’s not uncommon, but you have to know where to look for it.
Tickseed, Ben Hill County
Most people just see pretty yellow wildflowers on the roadside and lump them all together, but I try my best to identify them when I can. This particular coreopsis (Coreopsis basalis) is also known as Golden-mane Tickseed, Golden-mane Coreopsis, Calliopsis, or simply Tickseed. I wish botanists could agree on one name! It’s common in ditches and waste areas all over South Georgia from late spring until early summer.
Coral Bean, Toombs County
Coral Bean (Erythrina herbacea) is one of South Georgia’s most colorful native plants, though it’s rarely found in great numbers. It’s widely cultivated by home gardeners for its showy red flowers as a treat for hummingbirds. I grow it in my own yard and think everyone who loves native plants should give it a try.
Hooded Pitcher Plants, Berrien County
Often seen in ditches and bogs, the Hooded Pitcher Plant (Sarracenia minor) is one of the most interesting and unique plants in South Georgia.
Roadside Wildflowers, Turner County
These Verbena and Rudbeckia are located on Haw Pond Road.
Cypress Swamp, Waynesville
