flowersinflorida

Cross-Leaved Milkwort

Cross-leaved milkwort (Polygala cruciata) is a unique and fascinating plant native to Florida’s wetlands, prairies, and moist pinelands. This perennial herb is easily recognizable by its cross-shaped leaf arrangement and vibrant purple-to-pink flowers, which bloom from spring through fall. The plant typically grows to about 1 to 2 feet tall and prefers sunny, moist environments.
Cross-leaved milkwort plays a significant role in the local ecosystem by providing nectar for various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. It is also a part of the diverse flora that helps maintain the health and stability of wetland habitats.
Conservation of these habitats is crucial, as they are threatened by development and changes in land use. Protecting areas where cross-leaved milkwort thrives ensures the survival of this and many other native species.
Photo Credit: Lynn Marie
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Osceola’s Plume

Osceola’s Plume is a blooming plant that grows along the panhandle and
northern and central Florida areas. The flowers of this plant are white and turn pink and purple as the blooms age. The flowers grow in 40-100 bloom bunches at the end of a primarily leafless 1-3ft stem. From the base of the plant, needle-like leaves can be anywhere from 4-20in.
Osceola’s Plume is dormant during the winter and tends to reappear after fire, often growing in large colonies in the flames’ wake. Despite their love of fire, these plants grow best in moist areas such as bogs, savannahs, flatlands, and marshes. They drop brown seed pods and are a favorite of local pollinators.
Crowpoison, the other common name of Osceola’s Plume, is a member of the Bunchflower family and a group called the Deathcamas, of which it is the most toxic. The alkaloids in the plant’s foliage cause its poisonous nature and can be deadly to humans. Osceola’s Plume is a beautiful sight to behold, but don’t let any pets or small children get close.
Photo Credit: Lynn Marie
Author: Sarina Pennington, IOF Volunteer
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American Lotus

American Lotus, Nelumbo lutea, is a Florida native. The gorgeous pale yellow flowers are surrounded by beautiful circular leaves. The fragrant blooms are enjoyed from May through August.
Look for American Lotus in still and slow-moving waters that range from shallow up to six feet deep. They are often found in muddy water, at the edges of lakes and ponds, and wetlands. Seeds are available at the Florida Wildflowers Growers Cooperative.
The American Lotus provides food and shelter to wildlife. Parts of the plant are edible to humans. Many of us have enjoyed American Lotus in flower arrangements that have been purchased in floral shops and grocery stores.
Photo credit: Dan Kon
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