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Polygala myrtifolia

by Johan Wentzel

Polygala myrtifolia
Common Name
September bush
Plant Type
Shrub
Polygala myrtifolia is an evergreen, tall glossy leafed shrub, bearing masses of magenta-pink pea shaped flowers all year. It likes full sun or semi shade. Prune to shape.
Plant Description

The September bush,  Polygala myrtifolia, is an evergreen glossy leafed shrub which bears large quantities of pink pear-shaped flowers throughout the year. It is a low maintenance, waterwise plant that can grow both in full sun and under semi-shade conditions. It is indigenous to South Africa and its distribution stretches from Zululand in the north to Western Cape in the south.

Polygala myrtifolia is fast growing and can reach a mature height of 4m, but is normally much smaller. Leaves of this shrub are light green in colour with rounded tips. The pear-like flowers of Polygala myrtifolia resemble those of legumes. However, they are easily distinguished from legumes by the feathery tuft on their lower petals. The small oval fruit is slightly winged with a splitting capsule enclosed by persistent sepals.

If this shrub is left to grow without any pruning, it can make an effective screen plant. Polygala myrtifolia can be clipped into a very neat and interesting hedge. It is a valuable plant in a wildlife garden because of its sparse branches and brightly coloured flowers which attract bees and other insects to the garden. Because of the non-invasive nature of its root system, this tree is perfect for both large and small gardens. The September bush is drought resistant and can withstand very mild frost. It is still recognised today for its antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties.

You may find stock of this plant at Random Harvest.

Afrikaanse Naam
Bloukappie
Hardiness
Very hardy
Position
Sun
Water Requirements
Water wise
Evergreen
Evergreen
Growth Rate
Fast
Flowering Time
All year
Flower Colour
Mauve
Shape
Compact
Soil
Loam
Plant Size
2m
Region
Western Cape, Eastern seaboard
Habitat
Forest margin, Riverine
Grown by Wildflower Nursery
Yes

Contact Us

Random Harvest Nursery: 082 553 0598

Jonathan Taylor: 0768305242

Email: [email protected]

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