Curtiss' Milkwort
Polygala curtissii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
NC
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Curtiss' milkwort is a low-growing native perennial that forms compact clumps with small, delicate flowers. This diminutive wildflower blooms from late spring through summer with tiny pink to purple pea-like flowers. It naturally occurs in sandy soils and coastal areas of the Southeast.
In an HOA neighborhood
Curtiss' Milkwort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very small stature looks weedy in formal settings
- Uncommon plant that most HOAs wouldn't recognize as intentional
- May disappear seasonally or appear patchy
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and some butterfly species during its extended bloom period from May through August.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Curtiss' Milkwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.