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Boykin's milkwort
Scientific Name: Polygala boykinii
Family: Polygalaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Annual
Other Names: TN (Boykin's milkwort)
Boykin's Milkwort (Polygala boykinii)
Polygala boykinii, commonly known as Boykin's Milkwort, is a delicate herbaceous plant belonging to the Milkwort family (Polygalaceae). It's a native plant found in specific regions of North America. This page offers a comprehensive overview of its characteristics, distribution, and ecological significance.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Polygala boykinii Nutt.
- Common Name: Boykin's Milkwort
- Family: Polygalaceae (Milkwort Family)
- Order: Caryophyllales
- Synonyms: None explicitly mentioned.
Distribution and Habitat
- Boykin's Milkwort is primarily found in the southeastern United States.
- It prefers rich woods, the edges of pine woods, pinelands, wet prairies, and flatwoods.
- It can also be found in disturbed sites.
Morphological Characteristics
- Polygala boykinii is described as an upright, hairy perennial herb.
- It features simple leaves and white flowers arranged in a raceme.
- It's considered a small plant.
- It is a non-woody plant that is not a grass (a forb/herb).
Quirky Facts
- Boykin's Milkwort was named after Dr. Samuel Boykin (1786-1848), who moved to Georgia from South Carolina. The plant was identified by botanist John Torrey.
Further Information
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Provides information and resources focused on protecting and preserving North America's native plants.
- Discover Life: Offers a page dedicated to the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Polygala boykinii.