About
A species of evergreen shrub with oval-shaped green leaves to around 100cm in height. Some varieties may flower all year round. Clusters of sweetly-scented, purple to dark pink sweet-pea like flowers appear in late spring to early summer.
About the genus
Polygala can be annuals, evergreen perennials or shrubs, with simple leaves and racemes of somewhat pea-shaped flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in a large pot or container in moist but well-drained, humus-rich peat-free compost in a bright greenhouse or conservatory. May be moved outside to a sunny location in summer. Protect from frost
PruningPrune after flowering to maintain shape encourage new growth. May be trimmed lightly all year round Remove dead or damaged branches
PropagationPropagate by seed by collecting the seed from mature seed pods in late summer. Propagate by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-ripe cuttings in mid to late summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to glasshouse whitefly, glasshouse red spider mite and aphids
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free