Cross-leaved Milkwort

(Polygala cruciata)

Cross-leaved Milkwort (Polygala cruciata L.)

Identification: Flowers pink, small, with 3 petals including 2 lateral, triangular ones. Flowers arranged in a terminal, closely packed, oblong head. Flower head stalks variable, but usually short. Flower clusters 8 to 20 mm. thick. Leaves in whorls of 4 forming crosses around the stem. Plant 4 to 12 inches in height.

Distribution: Primarily found along the Atlantic Coast from Maine to Florida and along the Gulf Coast to Texas. Also found inland from northern Ohio to Minnesota, Louisiana, and Nebraska.

Habitat: Cross-leaved Milkwort is found in sandy swamps, bogs, pine barrens, and along the edges of marshes.

Flowering period: July to October.

Similar Species: Cross-leaved Milkwort is similar to to Short-leaved Milkwort. The flower heads of Short-leaved Milkwort are not as large or tightly packed. The flower head stalks of Short-leaved Milkwort are usually longer than those of Cross-leaved Milkwort. The leaf whorls of Short-leaved Milkwort are more irregular and usually do not form distinct, regular crosses.