Chalk Milkwort is a
native
perennial plant of the UK, typically found growing in grazed chalk and limestone grassland, to a mature height of up to 5cm.
Chalk Milkwort takes its name from its habitat and the traditional belief that the plant increases milk production. As a small, low-growing plant of grassland, the plant's survival in a given location relies on grazing, to keep surrounding grasses in check. The plant has tiny but pretty and unusual flowers, with a frilly lobed white lower petal. Cultivated varieties are available for garden rockeries.
Botanic classification and naming: Chalk Milkwort is a member of the Milkwort (Polygalaceae) family. The genus name
'Polygala' identifies the plant as a Milkwort and its species name 'calcarea' means 'chalkland plant'.
Concerns: Chalk Milkwort should never be taken from the wild. Removal of a plant from the wild is illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981).
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