Family: Polygalaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Sp. Pl.: 706 (1753)
Year: 1753
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Polygala
Vegetable: False
Observations: SE. Canada to C. & E. U.S.A.
Description
Drumheads, known scientifically as Polygala cruciata, is a notable member of the Polygalaceae family. This intriguing plant was first documented in 1753 by the renowned botanist Linnaeus in his seminal work, “Species Plantarum.”
One of the distinguishing features of Drumheads is its unique floral structure, which earned it the common name due to the resemblance of its flower clusters to tiny drumheads. The plant is primarily found across a range of habitats, stretching from southeastern Canada through central and eastern United States. Its adaptability across this vast geographical range indicates a resilient species capable of thriving in various environmental conditions.
Drumheads are typically found in moist, sandy soils, often in open, sunny locations such as wet meadows, bogs, and fens. This preference for moisture-rich environments makes it a common sight in regions where these conditions are prevalent, contributing to the plant’s widespread distribution.
The plant’s inflorescence is particularly captivating, with small, pink to purple flowers that form dense, globular clusters. These vibrant blooms not only add an aesthetic charm to the landscapes but also play a crucial role in attracting pollinators, which are vital for its reproduction. Additionally, the flowers transition through intriguing color changes throughout the blooming period, adding dynamic visual interest to its natural settings.
Drumheads serve an essential ecological function in their habitats. They provide food resources for various pollinators, including bees and butterflies, thereby supporting the local biodiversity. The presence of Polygala cruciata in an ecosystem can be an indicator of healthy, functioning wetland areas due to its specific soil moisture requirements.
From a horticultural perspective, Drumheads can be an unusual yet captivating addition to naturalized garden settings that mimic the plant’s natural habitat. Gardeners interested in native plant gardening often include Polygala cruciata for its unique beauty and its contribution to supporting native pollinators.
In summary, Drumheads (Polygala cruciata) is a fascinating plant with significant ecological value and ornamental potential. Its distribution from southeastern Canada through central and eastern United States, coupled with its beautiful and unique flower clusters, makes it an appealing subject for both botanists and gardeners alike. Documented first by Linnaeus in 1753, its enduring presence highlights its importance and adaptability in diverse environmental conditions.
Common Names
Eng: drumheads
En: Drumheads
Synonyms
- Polygala cruciata var. aquilonia (Fernald & B.G.Schub.)
- Polygala cruciata f. alba ((Oakes) Fernald & B.G.Schub.)
- Polygala cruciata var. alba (Oakes)
- Polygala cruciata f. parva (Hemsl.)
- Polygala cruciata var. ramosior (Nash ex B.L.Rob. & A.Gray)
- Polygala cruciata var. cuspidata (Alph.Wood)
- Polygala aquilonia ((Fernald & B.G.Schub.) Sorrie & Weakley)
- Polygala fastigiata (Nutt.)
- Polygala cruciata subsp. aquilonia ((Fernald & B.G.Schub.) A.Haines)
- Polygala cuspidata (Hook. & Arn.)
- Polygala ramosior ((Nash ex B.L.Rob. & A.Gray) Small)
Distribution
- Alabama (native)
- Arkansas (native)
- Connecticut (native)
- Delaware (native)
- District of Columbia (native)
- Florida (native)
- Georgia (native)
- Illinois (native)
- Indiana (native)
- Iowa (native)
- Kentucky (native)
- Louisiana (native)
- Maine (native)
- Maryland (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Michigan (native)
- Minnesota (native)
- Mississippi (native)
- New Hampshire (native)
- New Jersey (native)
- New York (native)
- North Carolina (native)
- Ohio (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Pennsylvania (native)
- Rhode I. (native)
- South Carolina (native)
- Tennessee (native)
- Texas (native)
- Virginia (native)
- West Virginia (native)
- Wisconsin (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Jun 14, 2020 by Justin Booher (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 6, 2022 by McKaila Stafford (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Cooper, G.A. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − John Hilty (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 29, 2013 by EOL − Jesse Lincoln (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Jul 12, 2021 by Eli Small (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 22, 2013 by EOL − Scott Schuette (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 12, 2015 by EOL − alorenz (cc-by-nc)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:691315-1)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3191398)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Polygala cruciata L.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb