Asclepias asperula subspecies capricornu is found mostly in Texas and Oklahoma. The plants will emerge early in February and March. If rain is scarce they will go dormant in summer and often grow back in the fall. Take a close look at the bloom color to tell it apart from the next note.
Asclepias asperula subspecies asperula has the rich purple throughout the hoods. Generally a more upright growth habit. Tends to remain green thru dry summers in the southwestern United States. Although it will emerge from dormancy a bit later in spring and the seeds ripen and the stem senesces earlier September.
I’ve had the fortune to collect seeds which are in my store. The 2022 seed are viable and less sats. The 2023 seed are viable and a good value. It is taking some years to get them established in my own garden. https://www.growmilkweedplants.com/product-page/asclepias-asperula-spider-milkweed-seed
Not always obvious from far away. Monarch larvae are often found under the leaves.
