Longstem milkwort (Polygala longicaulis, F.W.H.von Humboldt, A.J.A.Bonpland & C.S.Kunth, Nov. Gen. Sp. 5: 396 (1823))

Family: Polygalaceae

Author: Kunth

Bibliography: F.W.H.von Humboldt, A.J.A.Bonpland & C.S.Kunth, Nov. Gen. Sp. 5: 396 (1823)

Year: 1823

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Polygala

Vegetable: False

Observations: Trop. & Subtrop. America

Description

Longstem milkwort, scientifically known as Polygala longicaulis, is a fascinating species within the Polygalaceae family. First described in 1823 by the eminent botanists Alexander von Humboldt, Aimé Bonpland, and Carl Sigismund Kunth in their seminal work “Nova Genera et Species Plantarum,” this plant holds a distinctive place in the biodiversity of tropical and subtropical regions of America.

The longstem milkwort thrives in diverse habitats across its range, showcasing an incredible adaptability to various environmental conditions. Characterized by its elongated stems, which give the plant its common name, it often attracts attention with its delicate and intricate floral structures.

Belonging to the Polygalaceae family, which is known for its complex flowers that often resemble those of legumes or orchids, Polygala longicaulis holds its own unique charm. The flowers are typically small but vibrant, and they play a crucial role in the plant’s reproductive cycle, attracting various pollinators that aid in the distribution of pollen.

The plant’s ecological role in tropical and subtropical America underscores its importance. It is often found in regions where other plants may struggle, thus contributing to the flora diversity and supporting local ecosystems. As a result, Polygala longicaulis not only adds aesthetic value to its surroundings but also plays a functional part in maintaining the health of its native habitats.

Understanding the characteristics and ecological significance of longstem milkwort enriches our appreciation of plant biodiversity and highlights the intricate balance within natural ecosystems. The work of Humboldt, Bonpland, and Kunth continues to be invaluable, providing a historical foundation for ongoing botanical studies and conservation efforts related to this remarkable species.

Common Names

Eng: longstem milkwort
En: Longstem milkwort, Long-Stem Milkwort

Synonyms

• Polygala longicaulis var. flavicoma (Chodat)
• Polygala longicaulis var. major (Chodat)
• Polygala longicaulis subvar. nana (Chodat)
• Polygala gomphrenoides (A.St.-Hil. & Moq.)
• Polygala longicaulis f. minutiflora (Chodat)
• Polygala adpressa (Steud. ex A.Stahl)
• Polygala stellera (DC.)
• Polygala brachistachyos (Poir.)

Distribution

• Argentina Northeast (native)
• Belize (native)
• Bolivia (native)
• Brazil North (native)
• Brazil Northeast (native)
• Brazil South (native)
• Brazil Southeast (native)
• Brazil West-Central (native)
• Colombia (native)
• Costa Rica (native)
• Cuba (native)
• Dominican Republic (native)
• El Salvador (native)
• French Guiana (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Guyana (native)
• Haiti (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Nicaragua (native)
• Panamá (native)
• Paraguay (native)
• Puerto Rico (native)
• Suriname (native)
• Trinidad-Tobago (native)
• Venezuela (native)
• Vietnam (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Sep 26, 2021 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 26, 2021 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 25, 2019 by Anne Perdereau (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 17, 2020 by Luiza pazete Luiza pazete (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Barry Hammel (cc-by-nc-sa)

Other

Taken Sep 22, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 29, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 10, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Habit

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

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

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

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Barry Hammel (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 26, 2021 by Denis Bastianelli (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 10, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 10, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 22, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 22, 2016 by Nelson Zamora Villalobos (cc-by-nc)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3191437)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:330516-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Polygala longicaulis Kunth)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth