Matelea Species, Angle-pod, Oldfield Milkvine

I found this plant while walking in the woods near my home. The big heart-shaped leaves and dark purple flowers intrigued me, and eventu...Read Moreally I found out it was Matalea decipiens. I'll be keeping an eye on it to see if any butterfly larva are attracted to it. Looking forward to seeing the seed pods, too.

I discovered this plant at the cleared edge of our woods in the shade. It took me quite awhile to identify it, but because it was so int...Read Moreeresting I continued to watch it for two years. Last fall I collected two seed pods and I am in the process of starting them inside for later transplant.

Angle-pod is a really unusual and beautiful little vine. I especially love the flowers which resemble a witch hazel flower but it is dar...Read Morek maroon in color and the scent is of a very strong vanilla . However, it can be fragile and picky about the amount of water it recieves. Good drainage and not allowing the soil to dry out in the high summer temperatures is a must. Also I have had a lot of trouble keeping the rabbits and birds from eating it to the ground in the spring. I put a clear plastic dome over it until it reaches about 10 inches. I highly recommend this vine for it's uniqueness and wonderful fragrance!!