Mystery Flower in Virginia: 4-Petaled Pink Star with Lemonade Scent

Reader’s Description

• Perennial, 3+ feet tall
• Pink flowers, “pink lemonade” fragrance
• 4 upper petals + 1 lower petal = star shape
• Seed pods form star-shaped clusters with small black shiny seeds
• Long green stems, small leaves
• Appeared spontaneously 5 years ago in Scottsville, VA

Expert Investigation

The expert (Tom) found the flower “vaguely familiar” but couldn’t identify it from two photos. He requested more images and time to research. No final ID was provided in the thread.

Likely Candidates for Your Region

Next Steps for Identification

1. Take clear photos of: whole plant, leaf arrangement, flower close-up (front/side), seed pod cluster.
2. Note bloom time (month), sun exposure, soil type.
3. Submit to:
   – iNaturalist (community ID)
   – Local VA Cooperative Extension
   – Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center ID forum

“Pink lemonade” scent is a great clue—few perennials have that specific fragrance. With better photos, this mystery can be solved.