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Nature Hasn't Heard the School Bell

Submitted: Aug. 23, 2025, 5:10 p.m.
By: Heidi Simper, Assistant Curator of Plant Records

School may be back in session for students, but mother nature hasn't spoken yet.

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Red Milkweed Beetle on Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa)

Monarchs aren’t the only ones who depend on milkweed. These beetles feed almost exclusively on milkweeds, and by ingesting the plant’s toxins, they become poisonous and distasteful themselves—protecting them from predators.

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Dotted Gayfeather (Liatris punctata)

These purple spires are putting on a show in the Wildflower Meadow right now.

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Invincible Hosta (Hosta 'Invincible')

True to its name, this hosta is known for its resilience. You can find it thriving in the Fragrance Garden.

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Buterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa)

This plant gets featured often, but I can’t help myself—it’s just too photogenic. Look for its bright orange blooms throughout the Garden.

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Blue Glow (Echinops 'Blue Glow')

Another frequently featured favorite, and for good reason. Its striking globe-shaped blooms are impossible to miss along the Floral Walk.

Don't let the school calendar trick you into thinking you have to stay inside. See you in the Garden!


Photos by, Heidi M. Simper