Why Milkweed?

Milkweed refers to a genus of flowering plants (Asclepias) native to Turtle Island. They are a vital food and host plant to monarch butterflies and other pollinators. They have been a friend to me and are named here with respect and gratitude.

Seeming Paradoxes

Milk. Nourishing, mother, sweet.

Weed. That which (we've decided) doesn't belong.

What nourishment have we rejected, thinking it a weed?

Lineage

Land ancestors know the plant.

Ropes, food, medicine, pillows, glue.

What old ways are we remembering?

Generosity

Home. The plant feeds monarch larvae.

Protection. The plant's poison shields them from predators.

What is in our nature to house, feed, and protect?

Complexity

Flowers are among the most complex in the plant kingdom.

Pollination can be tricky.

Sound familiar?