Common polygala (Polygala sanguinea, Sp. Pl.: 705 (1753))

Family: Polygalaceae

Author: L.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 705 (1753)

Year: 1753

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Polygala

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. & E. U.S.A.

Description

Common polygala, scientifically known as Polygala sanguinea, is a fascinating plant native to Central and Eastern United States. This vibrant member of the Polygalaceae family first appeared in botanical literature in 1753, as documented by L., and has since intrigued botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.

Polygala sanguinea is recognized for its striking and colorful appearance, typically showcasing clusters of bright pink to purple flowers. These densely packed flower spikes project a distinctive charm, making the common polygala a visually appealing addition to meadows, prairies, and open woodlands where it naturally thrives.

The plant is adapted to a variety of environmental conditions found across its range in the United States, often flourishing in sunny spots with well-drained soils. It interacts harmoniously with local ecosystems, contributing to the diversity and stability of plant communities.

Despite its name, common polygala is anything but ordinary. Its unique floral structure is known to attract bees and other pollinators, playing an integral role in the reproductive cycle of many flowering plants within its habitat. Additionally, the beauty and ecological utility of Polygala sanguinea make it a subject of interest not only in natural settings but also in botanical gardens and landscape designs.

For those who seek to explore or cultivate this dynamic plant, appreciating its natural conditions and ecological relationships is key. By understanding its origins and environmental preferences, gardeners can foster a respectful and sustainable integration of the common polygala into cultivated spaces, preserving its legacy and charm for future generations.

Common Names

Eng: blood milkwort, blood polygala, common polygala, field milkwort, purple milkwort, rose milkwort, blood-red milkwort
Fra: polygale sanguin, polygala sanguin
En: Common polygala, Field milkwort, Purple milkwort, Rose milkwort, Blood milkwort, Blood polygala, Blood-red milkwort
Fr: Polygale sanguin, Polygala sanguin

Synonyms

• Polygala viridescens (L.)
• Polygala purpurea (Nutt.)
• Polygala viridescens f. albiflora (House)
• Polygala sanguinea f. viridescens ((L.) Farw.)
• Polygala viridescens var. sanguinea ((L.) Farw.)
• Polygala nuttalliana (F.Dietr.)
• Polygala sanguinea f. typica (Farw.)
• Polygala sanguinea f. albiflora (Millsp.)
• Polygala sanguinea f. albescens (Farw.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Arkansas (native)
• Connecticut (native)
• Delaware (native)
• District of Columbia (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Illinois (native)
• Indiana (native)
• Iowa (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Kentucky (native)
• Louisiana (native)
• Maine (native)
• Maryland (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• Missouri (native)
• Nebraska (native)
• New Brunswick (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New Jersey (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• New York (native)
• North Carolina (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Ohio (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Pennsylvania (native)
• Prince Edward I. (native)
• Québec (native)
• Rhode I. (native)
• South Carolina (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Tennessee (native)
• Texas (native)
• Vermont (native)
• Virginia (native)
• West Virginia (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 22, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 1, 2022 by Gareth Infinger (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 18, 2022 by Mary Lambe (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Aug 23, 2019 by Megan Donaldson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 23, 2020 by Mykala Spangler (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 22, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 27, 2013 by EOL − Christopher Tracey (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Steve R. Turner (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Steve R. Turner (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 22, 2004 by EOL − Steven J. Baskauf (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3191396)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:692266-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Polygala sanguinea L.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth