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Tall Pinebarren Milkwort

Polygala cymosa

Last reviewed: June 2026

Tall Pinebarren Milkwort (Polygala cymosa)
Photo: (c) James Hardee, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by James Hardee

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

LA

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Tall pinebarren milkwort produces clusters of small, bright yellow flowers from late spring through early fall. This upright perennial grows in clumps and thrives in sunny locations with moderate moisture. The plant maintains a relatively compact form throughout the growing season.

In an HOA neighborhood

Tall Pinebarren 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.

  • Appears too wild and unstructured for formal landscapes
  • May be mistaken for a weed by HOA boards
  • Unknown winter appearance could be problematic

Wildlife value

The long blooming period provides nectar for bees and butterflies from May through September. This native plant is particularly valuable for supporting local pollinator populations during the hot summer months.

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 Tall Pinebarren Milkwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.