milkwort

Milkwort is a common name applied to plants in the genus Polygala. This genus belongs to the family Polygalaceae, which is distributed worldwide. Milkwort species are typically herbaceous perennials, though some can be annuals or shrubs. They are characterized by their often small, delicate flowers, which can vary in color from white and pink to purple and blue. The name "milkwort" is thought to derive from the belief that certain species could increase milk production in livestock.

Several species of Polygala are known by the common name milkwort. For example, in Europe, Polygala vulgaris is a widespread species. In North America, Polygala senega, also known as Seneca snakeroot, is notable for its historical use in traditional medicine. Different milkwort species have been used in folk remedies for a range of ailments, though scientific evidence for many of these uses is limited or absent. The ecological role of milkwort varies; some species are important nectar sources for pollinators. The genus Polygala is diverse, with hundreds of species found in a wide array of habitats, from grasslands and heaths to woodlands and mountainous regions. Identification of specific milkwort species often relies on detailed examination of floral structure and leaf arrangement.