Elliott's Milkpea
Galactia elliottii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–48" H
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
FL, GA, SC
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Elliott's milkpea is a native climbing vine that produces small purple pea-like flowers from summer through early fall. This perennial vine can spread along the ground or climb up supports, reaching 1-4 feet in height with a variable spread depending on available structure.
In an HOA neighborhood
Elliott's Milkpea takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Vine growth habit appears uncontrolled
- Can look scraggly without proper support
- May be perceived as weedy due to sprawling nature
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and butterflies during its long blooming period from June through September. As a member of the legume family, it also helps fix nitrogen in the soil.
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 Elliott's Milkpea fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.