In this article, the author explores seven different types of pink wildflowers found in North Dakota. From the vibrant Swamp Milkweed, known for attracting a variety of pollinators, to the resilient Fireweed, which thrives in areas recently devastated by forest fires, each flower showcases its own unique beauty. Readers will learn about the characteristics and growing information of these wildflowers, as well as their importance in attracting butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. Whether you’re an avid wildflower enthusiast or simply curious about the flora in North Dakota, this guide offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of pink wildflowers.
Swamp Milkweed
Also known as: Pink Milkweed
Growing Information
USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-11
Life Cycle: Perennial
Approximate Mature Size: 24-72 in (61-183 cm) tall
Bloom Time: Summer to Fall
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Description and Characteristics
Swamp Milkweed, also known as Pink Milkweed, is a native pink wildflower in North Dakota. It can be found growing in wet meadows and along lakeshores. One of the key identifiers of Swamp Milkweed is its clusters of deep pink flowers.
This perennial wildflower is an excellent choice for attracting pollinators to your garden. Its fragrant flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. In addition, the leaves of Swamp Milkweed are an important food source for Monarch caterpillars.
Preferred Habitat
Swamp Milkweed thrives in wet habitats such as wetlands, marshes, and along lake margins. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Spreading Dogbane
Also known as: Fly-trap Dogbane, Bitterroot
Growing Information
USDA Hardiness Zone: 2-9
Life Cycle: Perennial
Approximate Mature Size: 24-60 in (61-152 cm) tall
Bloom Time: Summer
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Full Shade
Description and Characteristics
Spreading Dogbane, also known as Fly-trap Dogbane or Bitterroot, is a prolific pink wildflower that can be found in North Dakota. Its name comes from its toxic properties, which are harmful to both dogs and humans.
Look for small, pink bell-shaped flowers and a scent similar to lilac when identifying this wildflower. Spreading Dogbane prefers to grow in sandy soil, particularly along streambanks.
Preferred Habitat
Spreading Dogbane can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and woodlands. It is commonly found in open areas with sandy soil.
Common Milkweed
Growing Information
USDA Hardiness Zone: 3–9a
Life Cycle: Perennial
Approximate Mature Size: 36-96 in (91-244 cm) tall
Bloom Time: Summer
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Description and Characteristics
Common Milkweed is a fragrant pink wildflower that is commonly found in North Dakota. With approximately 450 species of insects feeding on it, including beetles, butterflies, moths, bees, wasps, ants, and flies, this wildflower is excellent for attracting pollinators.
One unique characteristic of Common Milkweed is its ability to push out and smother other plants. It is important to plant it in an isolated spot where it has little competition. In the wild, Common Milkweed can be found in abandoned fields, forest clearings, and roadside ditches.
Preferred Habitat
Common Milkweed grows in a wide range of habitats, including prairies, meadows, fields, and roadsides. It prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soil.
Behavior and Interaction with Other Plants
Common Milkweed has a unique way of interacting with other plants. It is known for its aggressive nature, often outcompeting and smothering nearby plants. Its expansive root system allows it to spread quickly and establish dominance in its habitat.
Large Beardtongue
Also known as: Showy Beardtongue, Large Penstemon
Growing Information
USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-9
Life Cycle: Perennial
Approximate Mature Size: 24-48 in (61-122 cm) tall
Bloom Time: Late Spring to Early Summer
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Description and Characteristics
Large Beardtongue, also known as Showy Beardtongue or Large Penstemon, is a native pink wildflower found in North Dakota. It is characterized by its large, lavender tubular flowers that grow on short upright stalks.
The showy blooms of Large Beardtongue attract native bees, bumblebees, hummingbirds, and birds. This wildflower is threatened in some states, so planting it in gravelly and sandy soil can help preserve this species.
Preferred Soil
Large Beardtongue prefers well-drained soil, particularly gravelly and sandy soil. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Conservation Status
Large Beardtongue is considered a threatened species in some states due to habitat loss and overcollection. It is important to protect and preserve this native pink wildflower.
Fireweed
Also known as: Willow Herb
Growing Information
USDA Hardiness Zone: 2-8
Life Cycle: Annual or Perennial
Approximate Mature Size: 18-120 in (46-305 cm) tall
Bloom Time: Late Spring and Summer
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Description and Characteristics
Fireweed, also known as Willow Herb, is a resilient pink wildflower that can be found in North Dakota. True to its name, Fireweed is often the first plant to grow in clearings that have been recently devastated by forest fires.
Fireweed is known for its striking spikes of purplish-pink flowers that cover the landscape. It is a favorite food source for hummingbirds, moths, and butterflies.
Preferred Habitat
Fireweed thrives in open areas, particularly those recently disturbed by fire or other natural disasters. It can be found in a range of habitats, including meadows, clearings, and open woodlands.
Ecological Significance
Fireweed plays a crucial role in the ecological recovery of disturbed habitats. Its ability to quickly colonize and establish itself in these areas helps to stabilize the soil, provide habitat for pollinators, and facilitate the regeneration of other plant communities.
Obedient Plant
Also known as: Obedience, False Dragonhead, Virginia Lions-heart
Growing Information
USDA Hardiness Zone: 2-10
Life Cycle: Perennial
Approximate Mature Size: 24-48 in (61-122 cm) tall
Bloom Time: Summer to Fall
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Description and Characteristics
Obedient Plant, also known as Obedience, False Dragonhead, or Virginia Lions-heart, is a pink wildflower that can be found in North Dakota. It gets its name from the way its flowers will stay in position if pushed or bent to one side.
Look for the blushing pink or lilac flowers clustered along stiff stems to identify this wildflower. Obedient Plant grows in prairies, meadows, and unused fields. Planting it in your garden beds and borders can attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Preferred Habitat
Obedient Plant thrives in a variety of habitats, including open woodlands, prairies, and meadows. It is often found growing in moist and fertile soil.
Cultural Significance
Obedient Plant has cultural significance in some Native American traditions. It is believed to possess healing properties and has been used in herbal medicine by some tribes.
Prairie Onion
Also known as: Prairie Onion, Autumn Onion
Growing Information
USDA Hardiness Zone: 3-8
Life Cycle: Perennial
Approximate Mature Size: 12-24 in (30-61 cm) tall
Bloom Time: Summer to Fall
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Description and Characteristics
Prairie Onion, also known as Autumn Onion, is a pink wildflower that can be found in North Dakota. Its blooms resemble floating balls of pink and white and form on long stalks that grow from tufts of leaves.
Prairie Onion is particularly attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. Look for this wildflower in sandy, rocky, and dry soils, as well as limestone cliffs.
Preferred Habitat
Prairie Onion thrives in well-drained sandy or rocky soils. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Edible and Medicinal Uses
Like other allium varieties, Prairie Onion has edible and medicinal uses. The bulbs and flower stems have a strong flavor and can be eaten raw, boiled, pickled, or used as a seasoning for salads and soups. Native Americans and early settlers also used the bulbs to repel insects.
Conclusion
North Dakota is home to a diverse array of pink wildflowers. From the native beauty of Swamp Milkweed and Spreading Dogbane to the fragrant allure of Common Milkweed and Large Beardtongue, these wildflowers add color and vitality to the landscape. Fireweed, Obedient Plant, and Prairie Onion also play important ecological and cultural roles in the region. By planting and preserving these pink wildflowers, gardeners can create vibrant and sustainable habitats for pollinators and wildlife. So, the next time you come across a pink wildflower in North Dakota, take a moment to appreciate its unique characteristics and significance.
References
- “7 Kinds of PINK Wildflowers in North Dakota (w/Pics).” Bird watching HQ, birdwatchinghq.com/pink-wildflowers-in-north-dakota/.