Myrtle-leaf milkwort

Myrtle-leaf milkwort
Myrtle-leaf milkwort - Polygala myrtifolia
The flower of the myrte-leaf milkwort
The red-purple flower of the myrtle-leaf milkwort. Photo: Egon Krogsgaard

Myrtle-leaf milkwort (Polygala myrtifolia) is a very common evergreen shrub along the southern and southeastern coasts of South Africa. It flowers for most of the year, but especially during the spring months, which in South Africa fall in August and September.

Myrtle-leaf milkwort is widely cultivated in southern Africa. It is a hardy, fast-growing plant used in shelterbelts, as a hedge, or as an ornamental shrub because of its beautiful reddish-purple flowers.

Myrtle-leaf milkwort is also commonly available for sale in many places in Denmark. It thrives in conservatories and as a container plant outdoors during summer. However, it tolerates only light frost.


Facts:

  • Greenhouse location: Not on display at hen moment
  • Danish name: Myrte-mælkeurt
  • Latin name: Polygala myrtifolia
  • Family: Milkwort family
  • Natural habitat: South Africa

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