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mystery plant in my garden #754425

Asked June 07, 2021, 9:18 AM EDT

I can't identify a plant that has appeared in my garden -- looks similar to milkweed, but the flowers are entirely different. Any idea what it could be?

Frederick County Maryland

Expert Response

This looks like cowcockle or cow soapwort (Vaccaria hispanica). This Washington state herbarium page has information and shows details of this species. http://biology.burke.washington.edu/herbarium/imagecollection/taxon.php?Taxon=Vaccaria%20hispanica

Cowcockle originates from Europe and is not commonly found in Maryland. https://www.marylandbiodiversity.com/view/3005

Christa

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 07, 2021, 11:38 AM EDT
That was quick, thank you!  I'm glad to know what it is.

On Monday, June 7, 2021, 11:38:12 AM EDT, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied June 07, 2021, 11:53 AM EDT

You're welcome.

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 07, 2021, 12:13 PM EDT

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