June 9, 2021

This is Orange Milkwort

Sometimes also called "candy weed"

Its seeds have a structure called an elaiosome

Which attracts ants, who disperse the seeds.

Location: Fort Drum Marsh Conservation Area

Sources: https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/media/sfylifasufledu/duval/horticulture/homowner-hort-pdfx27s/Polygala_lutea.pdf

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/propagation/seeds/why-do-seeds-have-elaiosomes.htm

Photo and text © 2021 Dee Fairbanks Simpson