The article titled “A Guide to Rhode Island’s Pink Wildflowers” provides an overview of 18 different varieties of pink wildflowers that can be found in the state. This comprehensive guide focuses on the most common pink wildflowers and offers valuable information about their growing habits, appearance, and specific locations where they can be spotted. From the vibrant Swamp Milkweed to the delicate Pink Lady’s Slipper, readers will discover a plethora of captivating pink blooms found in Rhode Island’s meadows, forests, and wetlands. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking to appreciate the beauty of these remarkable flowers, this guide is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring Rhode Island’s floral treasures.
1. Swamp Milkweed
1.1 Growing Information
Swamp Milkweed, also known as Asclepias incarnata, is a perennial wildflower that thrives in moist or wet soil conditions. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. This wildflower is native to North America and is especially common in Rhode Island. It is relatively easy to grow from seeds or by transplanting established plants. Swamp Milkweed requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist. It is important to note that this plant contains toxic sap, so caution should be exercised when handling it.
1.2 Appearance
Swamp Milkweed grows to a height of about 2-4 feet, with a spread of approximately 1-2 feet. It has lance-shaped leaves that are arranged oppositely along the stem. The leaves are a deep green color and can measure up to 8 inches long. In late spring and summer, clusters of pink or purple flowers bloom atop tall stems. These flowers are attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. Swamp Milkweed also produces long, narrow seed pods that contain silky hairs. When the pods mature, they split open, releasing the seeds which are dispersed by the wind.
1.3 Where to Find
Swamp Milkweed can be found in various habitats, including wet meadows, marshes, stream banks, and roadside ditches. It is commonly seen in nature preserves and along the edges of ponds and lakes. Rhode Island offers several locations where one can easily find Swamp Milkweed, such as the Audubon Society of Rhode Island wildlife refuges, Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, and Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge. It is also possible to find Swamp Milkweed in home gardens and landscaping projects that promote native plants.
2. Spreading Dogbane
2.1 Growing Information
Spreading Dogbane, or Apocynum androsaemifolium, is a perennial wildflower native to North America. It is well-suited to a variety of growing conditions and can thrive in both sun and partial shade. This wildflower is known for its hardiness and ability to adapt to different soil types. It can be propagated by seeds or through the division of established plants. Spreading Dogbane has a deep, extensive root system, which makes it drought-tolerant once established. However, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist during the initial stages of growth.
2.2 Appearance
Spreading Dogbane has a bushy growth habit and typically reaches a height of 2-4 feet. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are arranged oppositely along the stem. The leaves have a shiny appearance and can be up to 4 inches long. In late spring and summer, clusters of small, pale pink or white flowers bloom atop the stems. These flowers have a distinct fragrance and are attractive to butterflies and bees. Spreading Dogbane also produces long, narrow seed pods that are filled with silky hairs. The seeds are dispersed by the wind, similar to Swamp Milkweed.
2.3 Where to Find
Spreading Dogbane can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, forests, and open areas. It is commonly seen along roadsides, in meadows, and at the edges of woods. In Rhode Island, this wildflower can be found in locations such as Arcadia Management Area, Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge, and East Beach State Beach. It is also possible to find Spreading Dogbane in home gardens and natural areas that promote native plant species.
3. Crown Vetch
3.1 Growing Information
Crown Vetch, or Securigera varia, is a perennial wildflower that is commonly used for erosion control due to its spreading habit and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Crown Vetch is native to Europe and was introduced to North America as a forage crop and ground cover. It can be easily propagated by seed and requires minimal maintenance once established. This wildflower has nitrogen-fixing capabilities, which makes it beneficial for soil enrichment.
3.2 Appearance
Crown Vetch is a trailing or vining plant that forms dense mats of foliage. It has compound leaves that consist of several pairs of small leaflets. The leaflets are oval-shaped and have a medium green color. In mid-summer, clusters of pink or white flowers bloom atop tall, slender stems. These flowers are visually striking and attract butterflies and other pollinators. Crown Vetch does not produce a seed pod but instead forms clusters of small, brown seeds.
3.3 Where to Find
Crown Vetch can be found in a wide range of habitats, including meadows, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It is commonly used for erosion control along highways and in large-scale landscaping projects. In Rhode Island, Crown Vetch can be seen in locations such as Fort Wetherill State Park, Snake Den State Park, and Roger Williams Park. It may also be found in home gardens for its aesthetic value or as a ground cover option.
4. Common Milkweed
4.1 Growing Information
Common Milkweed, also known as Asclepias syriaca, is a perennial wildflower that is native to North America. It is a popular choice for butterfly gardens and pollinator habitats due to its important role as a host plant for the Monarch butterfly. Common Milkweed prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is adaptable to various soil types and can tolerate dry conditions once established. This wildflower can be grown from seeds or by transplanting established plants.
4.2 Appearance
Common Milkweed grows to a height of about 3-6 feet and has a clump-forming habit. It has large, broad leaves that are arranged opposite to each other along the stem. The leaves are a dull green color and can measure up to 8 inches long. In summer, clusters of fragrant, pink or mauve flowers bloom in rounded clusters known as umbels. These flowers are highly attractive to butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Common Milkweed produces distinctive seed pods that are green and warty when young and turn brown and dry as they mature. The seeds are attached to silky hairs that aid in wind dispersal.
4.3 Where to Find
Common Milkweed can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, and prairies. It is commonly seen along roadsides and in disturbed areas. In Rhode Island, this wildflower can be found in locations such as Great Swamp Wildlife Management Area, Arcadia Management Area, and Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. Common Milkweed is also a popular choice for home gardens and is often included in monarch butterfly conservation efforts.
5. Sweet Joe Pye Weed
5.1 Growing Information
Sweet Joe Pye Weed, or Eutrochium purpureum, is a tall, herbaceous perennial that is native to North America. It thrives in moist to wet soil conditions and prefers full sun to partial shade. This wildflower can be easily grown from seeds or by dividing established plants. It requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, to maintain healthy growth. Sweet Joe Pye Weed is known for its strong architectural presence and is a valued addition to native plant gardens.
5.2 Appearance
Sweet Joe Pye Weed can grow to a height of 5-7 feet, making it one of the tallest wildflowers in Rhode Island. It has sturdy, purple or reddish stems and lance-shaped leaves that are arranged oppositely along the stem. The leaves have a deep green color and can measure up to 10 inches long. In late summer and early fall, large dome-shaped clusters of tiny, pinkish-purple flowers bloom at the top of the stems. These flowers are highly attractive to butterflies and other pollinators. Sweet Joe Pye Weed produces small, dry seed capsules that contain small seeds.
5.3 Where to Find
Sweet Joe Pye Weed can be found in wet meadows, marshes, and along stream banks. It is a common sight in nature preserves and wetland areas in Rhode Island. Some locations where one can find Sweet Joe Pye Weed include Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge, and Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. It is also a popular choice for home gardens and is frequently used in rain gardens and wetland restorations.
6. Trumpetweed
6.1 Growing Information
Trumpetweed, also known as Eutrochium fistulosum, is a perennial wildflower that is native to eastern North America. It is commonly found in moist to wet soil conditions and prefers full sun to partial shade. This wildflower can be easily propagated by seeds or by dividing established plants. Trumpetweed requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, especially during dry spells. It is known for its ability to attract a wide range of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
6.2 Appearance
Trumpetweed is a tall plant that can reach heights of 4-8 feet. It has hollow, sturdy stems that are tinged with purple or reddish hues. The leaves are lance-shaped and arranged oppositely along the stem. They have a deep green color and can measure up to 8 inches long. In late summer and early fall, dense clusters of small, pinkish-purple flowers bloom at the top of the stems. These flowers have a trumpet-like shape and provide a valuable nectar source for pollinators. Trumpetweed produces small, dry seed capsules that contain numerous seeds.
6.3 Where to Find
Trumpetweed can be found in wet meadows, marshes, and along stream banks. It is commonly seen in natural areas throughout Rhode Island, including wildlife refuges and wetland preserves. Some locations where Trumpetweed is found include Ballard Park, Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge, and Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge. This wildflower is also suitable for home gardens and is a great choice for attracting pollinators and adding vertical interest to the landscape.
7. Springbeauty
7.1 Growing Information
Springbeauty, or Claytonia virginica, is a small wildflower that is native to eastern North America. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate light shade. Springbeauty is a spring ephemeral, meaning it blooms early in the spring and then goes dormant by summer. It can be grown from seeds or through the division of established plants. This wildflower is relatively low-maintenance and requires minimal watering once established.
7.2 Appearance
Springbeauty has slender stems that grow to a height of about 4-8 inches. It has lance-shaped leaves that are arranged oppositely along the stem. The leaves have a medium green color and can measure up to 3 inches long. In early spring, delicate pink or white flowers bloom above the foliage. The flowers have five petals and are typically just under half an inch in diameter. Springbeauty produces small, egg-shaped seed capsules that burst open to release the seeds.
7.3 Where to Find
Springbeauty can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and moist areas. It is commonly seen in shaded areas of Rhode Island, such as forest edges, stream banks, and along hiking trails. Some locations where Springbeauty can be found include Lincoln Woods State Park, Burlingame State Park, and Snake Den State Park. It is also possible to find Springbeauty in home gardens that incorporate native plants or woodland flora.
8. Wild Mint
8.1 Growing Information
Wild Mint, or Mentha arvensis, is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia but has naturalized in North America. It thrives in moist soil conditions and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. Wild Mint can be grown from seeds or by transplanting established plants. This herb requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. It is known for its strong aroma and can be utilized in culinary or medicinal applications.
8.2 Appearance
Wild Mint grows to a height of about 1-3 feet and has square stems, a characteristic common to members of the mint family. It has lance-shaped leaves that are arranged oppositely along the stem. The leaves have toothed margins and a bright green color. In the summer, clusters of small, tubular, pink or lavender flowers bloom at the top of the stems. These flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies. Wild Mint produces small, dry seed capsules that contain numerous seeds.
8.3 Where to Find
Wild Mint can be found in wet meadows, along stream banks, and in other moist areas. It is commonly seen in nature reserves and wetland areas throughout Rhode Island. Some locations where Wild Mint can be found include Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge, and Snake Den State Park. It is also possible to cultivate Wild Mint in home gardens, either in container plantings or as a border plant in herb gardens.
9. Marsh Hedgenettle
9.1 Growing Information
Marsh Hedgenettle, or Stachys palustris, is a perennial wildflower that is native to wetlands and marshes in North America. It prefers moist or wet soil conditions and can tolerate full sun to partial shade. Marsh Hedgenettle can be grown from seeds or by dividing established plants. It requires regular watering to maintain optimal growth. This wildflower is known for its ability to attract pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
9.2 Appearance
Marsh Hedgenettle grows to a height of about 1-3 feet and has a bushy growth habit. It has square stems and lance-shaped leaves that are arranged oppositely along the stem. The leaves have a medium green color and can measure up to 6 inches long. In mid to late summer, dense spikes of pink or purple flowers bloom atop the stems. These flowers are tube-like in shape and are highly attractive to pollinators. Marsh Hedgenettle produces small, dry seed capsules that contain numerous seeds.
9.3 Where to Find
Marsh Hedgenettle can be found in wetlands, marshes, and along stream banks. It is commonly seen in nature reserves and wetland areas throughout Rhode Island. Some locations where Marsh Hedgenettle can be found include Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge, Francis C. Carter Memorial Preserve, and Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge. It is also possible to cultivate Marsh Hedgenettle in home gardens or in rain gardens designed to manage excess water runoff.
16. Everlasting Pea
16.1 Growing Information
Everlasting Pea, or Lathyrus latifolius, is a perennial vine that is native to Europe and western Asia. It thrives in well-drained soil conditions and prefers full sun to partial shade. Everlasting Pea can be grown from seeds or by transplanting established plants. This vine requires support for climbing and can be trained on trellises, fences, or pergolas. It is tolerant of dry conditions once established and can withstand light frost.
16.2 Appearance
Everlasting Pea produces long, trailing stems that can reach lengths of 6-10 feet or more. It has compound leaves that consist of several pairs of lance-shaped leaflets. The leaflets are a medium green color and have a smooth texture. In summer, clusters of pink, purple, or white flowers bloom along the stems. These flowers are pea-like in shape and are highly attractive to butterflies and bees. Everlasting Pea produces elongated seed pods that contain several seeds.
16.3 Where to Find
Everlasting Pea can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and disturbed areas. It is commonly seen along roadsides, in gardens, and in naturalized areas. In Rhode Island, Everlasting Pea can be found in locations such as Colt State Park, Beavertail State Park, and Fort Getty Park. It is also suitable for home gardens and can be used to cover unsightly structures or create a colorful and wildlife-friendly backdrop.