White Milkwort
Polygala alba
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CO, IA, ID, KS and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
White milkwort is a compact native perennial that forms small clumps of slender stems topped with clusters of tiny white flowers. It blooms continuously from May through August, creating a delicate, airy appearance in the garden. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
White Milkwort is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for bees and butterflies throughout most of the growing season. Its small size makes it particularly valuable for supporting smaller native pollinators.
Common questions
- How much sun does White Milkwort need?
- White Milkwort grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does White Milkwort bloom?
- White Milkwort blooms in May, June, July, and August.
- Where is White Milkwort native?
- White Milkwort (Polygala alba) is native to CO, IA, ID, KS and 9 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does White Milkwort attract?
- White Milkwort draws bees and butterflies.
- Is White Milkwort HOA-friendly?
- White Milkwort is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 White 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