This Asclepias physocarpa seed pod is about the size of a tangerine, and is full of air, with the seeds pressed together against the stem-side of the pod and have feather-like tails to carry them away when they are released. Monarch butterflies lay their eggs on this plant, and the caterpillars love to eat the leaves.
This is the first time I have seen the seed pod. It’s really wonderful. Lovely capture. j
Thanks jesika! It is the only species I have seen that forms a pod like this. Most form pairs of “horns” that split open along the seam. The common name for this one I have heard is ’Goat’s Balls’. Yikes! Hope that doesn’t offend. :-)
Comments
This is the first time I have seen the seed pod. It’s really wonderful.
Lovely capture.
j
Thanks jesika! It is the only species I have seen that forms a pod like this. Most form pairs of “horns” that split open along the seam. The common name for this one I have heard is ’Goat’s Balls’. Yikes! Hope that doesn’t offend. :-)
– Karen Zimmerman
Wouldn’t life be a bit uncomfortable with all those spikey bits??? LOL
j
Haha! I guess it certainly would! :)
– Karen Zimmerman
great shot. The first time i have seen one as well.