Pink Milkwort

Polygala incarnata C. Linnaeus

Polygalaceae

The root of this native annual is used medicinally for respiratory ailments and is currently even sold in some pharmacies. Although not endangered in Texas, Pink Milkwort is considered threatened or endangered in at least 8 states. Take caution when observing and collect only if you are certain it is OK to do so in your state.

Behind the Name :

Also commonly called Slender Milkwort, and Procession Flower.

Scientific synonym: Galypola incarnata (C. Linnaeus) N. Nieuwland.

Polygala -

From Greek; means "much milk" referring to the belief that this plant would increase the flow of mother's milk if used medicinally

incarnata -

From "in" for in or into, "caro" for flesh and "ata" for likeness; means flesh-colored

There are about 550 species of Polygala worldwide.

Tags :

native Texas wildflower, Texas native wildflower, Texas native plant, annual, herb, medicinal plant, Spring flowers, pink flowers, rose flowers, purple flowers, prairies, meadows, plains, grasslands, bogs