life
cycle - perennial, reproducing by seed and rhizomes
stems -
sturdy, pubescent, seldom branching, hollow; often red late
season growth
habit 1, growth
habit 2, growth
habit 3, spring growth
leaves - opposite, oblong, prominently veined, smooth above,
fine short white hairs below
flowers -
5-petaled, pinkish purple to white, sweet smelling; singly
on long stalks arranged in globe-shaped, dropping clusters;
axillary above; corona present between reproductive parts and
petal flowers
seedpods -
elongate, 3 to 4 inches, grayish, somewhat spongy, covered
with soft-spined projections; seeds flattened, silky parachute
immature seedpods, mature seedpods 1, mature seedpods 2, mature seedpods 3
