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Orange milkwort

How to identify Orange milkwort (Polygala lutea)

Orange milkwort, also known as Candy Weed, Bog Bachelor's Button

Orange milkwort exhibits a compact growth habit with vibrant yellow, rounded flowers that form in dense terminal clusters. This perennial's diminutive stature reaches typically around 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) in height. The narrow, lance-shaped leaves are arranged in an alternating fashion along the slender, green stems. The leaves predominantly measure about 1 to 3 inches (2.5 to 7.6 cm) in length. Blooms of orange milkwort are most profuse in the late spring to summer, providing a splash of color in its native moist environments.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Biennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Herb

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Orange milkwort

1

Vibrant yellow flowers in compact clusters, lacking scent, bloom from April to October.

2

Small, dry capsule fruit measuring 0.2 inches (5 mm), ripening to brown color, with black shiny seeds.

3

Slender stems, 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm), branched in upper half, flexible with green coloration.

4

Elliptical to lanceolate leaves, 0.75 to 1.5 inches (1.9 to 3.8 cm), nearly succulent with subtle vein patterns.

5

Diminutive stature, reaching 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) in height, with alternating lance-shaped leaves.

Orange milkwortOrange milkwortOrange milkwortOrange milkwortOrange milkwort

Detailed Traits of Orange milkwort

Leaf Features

The leaves of orange milkwort measure approximately 0.75 to 1.5 inches (1.9 to 3.8 cm) and are arranged along erect to ascending stems. They have a nearly succulent texture, offering a fleshy feel to the touch. The leaves are typically small, elliptical to lanceolate in shape, with a smooth margin and an overall green coloration. Vein patterns are subtle, contributing to the leaf’s slightly thickened appearance. These characteristics make the leaves distinct and readily identifiable.

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Flower Features

The flowers of orange milkwort are small, vibrant yellow, and arranged in compact, head-like clusters. Each bloom comprises 3 tiny sepals, with one often slightly larger. Two larger, petal-like sepals stand out prominently. These striking flowers, which lack a noticeable scent, bloom from April to October, making them a prominent feature throughout spring and fall. The flowers are an essential aspect for identifying this species, given their unique structure and vivid color.

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Stem Features

The stems of orange milkwort are slender, measuring approximately 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in height. They are often branched in the upper half, forming a loose and open structure. The texture of the stems is smooth, and they exhibit a green coloration that may darken slightly with age. The stems have a somewhat flexible form, allowing for slight bending. Their branching pattern is a key identifying feature, with multiple offshoots creating a distinct appearance in the plant's upper regions.

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Fruit Features

The fruit of orange milkwort is a small, dry capsule that splits open when mature. Typically, it measures around 0.2 inches (5 mm) in length, showcasing a smooth to slight-textured surface. As it ripens, the fruit transforms from a greenish hue to brown, blending with the foliage from June to November. Notably, the capsule contains two tiny seeds that are black and shiny, each wrapped in an orange to red, fleshy structure called an aril, which aids in seed dispersal by attracting birds and other fauna.

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Key Facts About Orange milkwort

Attributes of Orange milkwort
Plant Height
45 cm
Spread
30 cm
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Orange
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of Orange milkwort

Family
Milkwort
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Species
Orange milkwort (Polygala lutea)
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Distribution Map of Orange milkwort

Orange milkwort is a plant species native to the eastern regions of North America. It thrives naturally in coastal plains, expressing a preference for the temperate climate found within this broad geographic area. Although native to this major region, orange milkwort has not been significantly reported in areas beyond its natural range, suggesting limited introduction or cultivation in other parts of the world.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
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