Similar, But Quite Different

Iowa’s woodlands and roadsides host wildflowers that are similar, yet very different.

In and along the woodlands we are seeing wild blue phlox (aka Wild Sweet William and other names). Along disturbed areas we are now seeing large, beautiful displays of Dame’s Rocket - an invasive species from Europe.

While their colors can be similar, a study of the petals helps to discern the plants. Dame’s rocket has just four petals per blossom while phlox has five. Phlox has opposite leaves on the stem while dame’s rocket has alternate leaves.

I will admit that I only count leaf petals and don’t look at the leaves. But, if you are unsure, the layout of the leaves may help.

Invasive or native -both are very pretty!

Following are comparison pictures of both species.