Maryland milkwort ~ an east Texas favorite Despite a 2024 change in its scientific name from Polygala mariana to Senega mariana, Maryland milkwort, a member of the extensive milkwort family (Polygalaceae) remains one of my favorite native wildflowers. Its genus name, Polygala, comes from a Greek word meaning ‘much milk.’ At one time, the plants … Continue reading Maryland Milkwort ~ Dependable Beauty| Lagniappe
Aletris aurea abloom along the Big Thicket’s Sundew Trail A tall, slender splash of color common to east Texas, golden miller’s maid (Aletris aurea) occurs in wet pine savannas, moist pine flatwoods, and seepage areas where pitcher plants and meadow beauties also grow. The common name ‘miller’s maid’ may refer to the distinctive mealy or … Continue reading Forgoing the Straight and Narrow| Lagniappe