Care of the shrub Polygala myrtifolia or September bush |
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The genus Polygala, family Polygalaceae, includes 400 species of shrubs, trees and herbaceous plants distributed by almost all the continents. Some species are: Polygala myrtifolia, Polygala virgata, Polygala vulgaris, Polygala linoides, Polygala senega. Common names: September bush, Myrtle-leaf milkwort. This species is native to Western Cape and Kwazulu-Natal South Africa. They are perennial shrubs with an upright habit that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height. They have smooth small, oblong or elliptical, grayish-green leaves. The flowers are butterfly-shaped, appear in clusters and are purple in color. They bloom from late spring to late summer; warm climates can bloom almost all year round. They are used to form bushy groups, as isolated specimens and in pots. They are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. It needs a very sunny exposure, although it can live in semi-shade (it will produce fewer flowers). It does not tolerate frost but it does tolerate cold. The soil must be well drained and contain organic matter. Water abundantly in summer (never flood) and moderately the rest of the year (wait for the substrate to dry). They can be pruned in late winter to keep them compact and to control growth. Fertilize every 20 days with mineral fertilizer during the summer to promote flower production. They are resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases. They are easily propagated by seeds sown in spring and by cuttings in spring or fall. |
Images of the shrub Polygala myrtifolia or September bush |
 Polygala myrtifolia  Polygala myrtifolia  Polygala myrtifolia  Polygala myrtifolia  Polygala myrtifolia Grandiflora |