I think what I thought was milkweed syriaca (sp) is actually dogbane. I have a growing stand of it way in the back that I've let go for the past two years. It showed up on its own, and if it is dogbane, I'm going to yank it, dig it, destroy it this year. I'm trying to remember what the seed heads looked like, but I'm drawing a blank. I do remember getting the tent caterpillars on them last year, and I've read the dogbanes will get those. So, in answer to your question, that's the only experience I've had with it, and I don't want it to continue. LOL.

Just yesterday I discovered that what I planted out last year as a Stokes Aster is some weed/wildflower that lives in the woods behind my house. Sigh. At least you didn't plant yours out!

I know what you mean about getting good pictures. My goal is to get one really good underside shot of a Mulberry Wing next summer. They land with wings together and then in about 2-3 seconds relax into the jet-plane position. That leaves no time to focus and fire... So patience is pretty much the only answer: catching one at the right time. Certain nectar plants (like Buddleia above, or milkweeds) act somewhat like mild intoxicants and can help you to get close enough for a good pic. Jeff

Wow! You're good! I pasted Orthosiphon aristatus into a search engine and you're right, it does look like Cat's Whiskers. From this, I was able to learn it is not hardy here in upstate SC. Thanks, Adele!