Gaywings

(Polygaloides paucifolia)

Gaywings (Polygaloides paucifolia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Polygaloides paucifolia, commonly known as Gaywings or Fringed Polygala, is a perennial herb that is semi-evergreen to evergreen, depending on the climate. It is native to the cool, moist, deciduous woodlands and coniferous forests of the Eastern and North Central United States, as well as Southern Canada. Typically, this plant reaches a modest height of 3 to 6 inches. It features smooth, slender, and green stems with distinctive flowers that are pink and white, resembling small orchids, which bloom profusely in April and May. The flowers are quite showy and attract pollinators such as bees.

Gaywings are valued for their unique flowers and ability to thrive in shaded woodland gardens. They are often used as ground cover or in rock gardens, naturalized areas, and borders that mimic their native forest floor habitat. While they prefer part shade, they can tolerate full shade and require medium to low amounts of water, making them relatively low-maintenance. They grow best in humus-rich, well-drained soils with medium moisture. Despite their delicate appearance, they are hardy and can withstand cold winters. However, they may struggle in hot, dry conditions and are not suited to arid environments.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-6.5 feet
  • Width: 1.5-6.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Cool, moist, deciduous woodlands and coniferous forests of the Eastern and North Central United States, as well as Southern Canada

Other Names

Common Names: Snoopy Flower , Bird-On-The-Wing , Fringed Milkwort , Fringed Polygala , Gaywing Milkwort , Pink-Fringed Milkwort , Polygala Paucifolié , Polygale Paucifolié

Scientific Names: Polygala paucifolia , Polygaloides paucifolia , Polygala pauciflora , Polygala paucifolia f. alba , Polygala paucifolia f. albiflora , Polygala paucifolia f. paucifolia , Polygala paucifolia f. caerulea , Polygala paucifolia f. vestita , Polygala purpurea , Triclisperma paucifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: Polygaloides paucifolia (Willd.) J.R.Abbott