Polygala californica
Polygalaceae
California Milkwort
Mound, numerous upright and decumbent stems from woody base. Leaves 1–2 in. long, oval, dark green. Inflorescence thornless, a small cluster of 1/2 in. flowers at stem tip, pink or rarely white. Flower with 2 wing-like side sepals larger than same-colored petals; upper petal ridged to resemble 2 connected petals, and notched or contorted; lowest petal folded or contorted, enclosing 8 stamens and pistil. Self-fertile flowers clustered near base of stems. Seedpod flattened, oval, containing 1 seed. Grows among shrubs, on exposed slopes, at low elevations.
- Rarity: Uncommon
- Flowering Time: Early Spring, Mid Spring, Late Spring
- Flower Form: Petals 3
- Life Cycle: Perennial
- Height: 2–12 inches
- Habitat: Shrub-Steppe, West-side Forest
- Found In: Siskiyous
- Native: Yes
