Orange Milkwort
Polygala lutea
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
FL
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Orange milkwort is a compact annual wildflower that produces bright orange-yellow flower clusters from spring through fall. This small native plant grows in a neat, upright form and works well as a colorful accent in sunny gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Orange Milkwort 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.
- Annual lifecycle creates gaps when plants die
- Small stature may look sparse in formal landscapes
- Wild appearance typical of native wildflowers
Wildlife value
The vibrant flowers attract bees and butterflies throughout the long blooming season. This native plant provides nectar for pollinators during much of the growing year.
Common questions
- How much sun does Orange Milkwort need?
- Orange Milkwort grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Orange Milkwort bloom?
- Orange Milkwort blooms in April, May, June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Orange Milkwort native?
- Orange Milkwort (Polygala lutea) is native to FL, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Orange Milkwort attract?
- Orange Milkwort draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Orange Milkwort HOA-friendly?
- Orange Milkwort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Orange Milkwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz