Polygala species - Milkworts

Polygala serpyllifolia - Heath Milkwort

This can be differentiated from the less common P. vulgaris by the lowest leaves on the stem are opposite - they have often fallen off by the time flowers have faded. However, close examination will show the scars on the stem. In P. vulgaris all the leaves are alternate.

Polygala vulgaris - Common Milkwort

This is actually less common than Polygala serpyllifolia in Lanarkshire. It is more erect, bigger and usually has ten or more flowers on a stem.