Polygala mariana P. Miller - Maryland Milkwort
Family - Polygalaceae
Stems:
Leaves:
Inflorescence:
Note the naked inflorescence rachis.
Flowers:
Flowering - June - October.
Habitat - Open wet areas, ditches, pine savannahs.
Origin - Native to North America.
Other information - This species is scattered mainly throughout southern Alabama. The plant can be identified by its small, alternate leaves, angled stems, naked inflorescence rachises, and tight clusters of flowers.
The genus name Polygala derives from the Greek "poly" meaning "much" or "many" and "gala" meaning "milk". This name was given by Dioscorides to a low shrub which was believed to improve lactation.
The species epithet mariana means "of Maryland" as the species occurs there also.
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken off Hwy 431, Russell County, AL., 6-25-06.