Common Wildflowers in the Metro Parks Did you know planting native flowers, rather than non-native varieties, is crucial to pollinators? Here are just a few of the wildflowers you could find in the Metro Parks: Swamp Milkweed Asclepias incarnata Rose pink flowers adorn this tall wildflower. When & Where to See it Find the plant in wet meadows and low-lying fields such as the Tallmadge Meadows Area of Munroe Falls Metro Park. Fun Fact This delicate flower can be easily grown in backyard gardens and is a host plant for the monarch butterfly. Have you ever noticed how busy a milkweed plant can be? There are dozens of insects that depend on milkweeds for their survival. Golden Ragwort Senecio aureus The basal leaves are kidney-shaped, and the flower is a deep yellow or golden color. When & Where to See it Find this plant at Cascade Valley Metro Park. Fun Fact Before this flower blooms it has a dark purple stem, and later turns green as it matures. Philadelphia Fleabane Erigeron philadelphicus The Philadelphia fleabane produces many white or pinkish flowers. It is native to Ohio. When & Where to See it See this plant along different trails, like those at Cascade Valley Metro Park, in spring and summer. Fun Fact In the early days, this flower was said to prevent insect infestations. Cut-leaved Toothwort Dentaria laciniata The cut-leaved toothwort is a delicate spring wildflower that is a beautiful pale pink. When & Where to See it Find this plant at Hampton Hills Metro Park. Fun Fact This plant’s common name makes perfect sense -- the leaves are finely divided and the tubers are shaped like teeth. New England Aster Aster novae-angliae The New England aster is a tall, deep purple flower with a yellow center that blooms in late summer. When & Where to See it See it at Springfield Bog Metro Park, Liberty Park, F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm and along roadsides. Fun Fact New England asters are a favorite of many pollinators late in the season. Try planting it in your back yard to attract beautiful insects as they prepare for colder temperatures.