KNP Rare Plants Database


 
KY Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves




Gaywings
Polygala paucifolia
Family: Polygalaceae

Protection Status:
State Status:  E
USFWS Status: 

Global Rank: G5
State Rank: S1?

   

Photo by James Kiser
Habitat:
Moist rich woods (Cronq.1991)

Species Description:
Perennial herb.

Phenology:
Flowering Period: Early April to late May.

Additional Information at NatureServe

Diagnostic Characteristics:
This species has the largest flowers of the genus (13-19mm long) and 6 stamens. The well developed leaves are mostly near the summit of the plant. These summit leaves are oval and and 1.5-4 cm long. Members of this genus have the petals modified to form a tube around the stamens and the 2 of the 5 sepals are petaloid forming the "wings" of the flower.

Management:
Timber removal would be detrimental. Exotic pest plants are a threat to this species and should be removed. Avoid creating access to the site through trail or road construction.

Global Range:


Known Kentucky Occurrences:
Species occurrence map

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Data Last Updated: November 2018
Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves
300 Sower Blvd
Frankfort,KY 40601
Phone: (502) 573-2886
Email:
naturepreserves@ky.gov
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