polygala
/pəˈlɪɡələ/noun
Originally: any of several kinds of milkwort (Polygala species), especially common milkwort, P. vulgaris. Later also (Polygala): the type genus of the family Polygalaceae, comprising the milkworts.
- Valid publication of the genus name: Linnaeus Species Plantarum (1753) II. 701..
Origin
Late 16th century; earliest use found in Henry Lyte (1529–1607), botanist and antiquary. From classical Latin polygala, feminine, originally via Middle French polygala.