Galax – Galax urceolata (G. aphylla)

Common Name: Galax

Botanical Name: Galax urceolata (G. aphylla), GAY-lax ur-see-o-LAY-ta (G. a-FY-la)

Decorative Life: 7-14 days.

Availability: Year Round

• Member of the Diapensiaceae (diapensia family).
• Native to the Southeastern US.
• Two not so common relatives are Pyxidanthera and Shortia.

• Single, round or heart-shaped leaves, 4 inches in diameter, occur on short stems.
• Plant is a herbaceous perennial.
• Flowers are not fragrant. Plant is mostly used for cut foliage.

36-41F, in water.

• From the Greek “gala” (milk), referring to the white flowers.
• Leaves are reddish green in autumn and winter.
• The old specific epithet name “aphylla” means without leaves, a seemingly misnomer since the leaves are of commercial value.
• Often used as background in wreaths, accent in oriental designs.