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Description
Polygala Amara, also known as Bitter Milkwort, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Polygalaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in many regions, including the eastern United States, the Great Plains, and the Gulf Coast. The plant has a unique bitter taste and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as coughs, colds, and inflammation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Polygalaceae |
| Genus | Polygala |
Appearance
Polygala Amara grows up to 2 feet tall and has a bush-like growth habit. The plant has thin, green leaves that are around 1 inch long and ΒΌ inch wide. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom from May to September. The plant has a unique bitter taste, and the leaves and stems can be used to make a tea.
Care Guide
Polygala Amara is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Polygala Amara in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients.
- Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Polygala Amara can grow in hardiness zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polygala Amara is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is well-draining and never waterlogged.
Habitat
Polygala Amara is native to North America and can be found in many regions, including the eastern United States, the Great Plains, and the Gulf Coast. It grows in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woods. This plant prefers moist soils and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polygala Amara toxic?
A: No, Polygala Amara is not toxic. However, it is not recommended to consume large amounts of the plant.
Q: Can Polygala Amara grow in containers?
A: Yes, Polygala Amara can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Polygala Amara?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Polygala Amara tolerate drought?
A: No, Polygala Amara prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well.
Related Plants
- Polygala Lutea
- Polygala Paucifolia
- Polygala Senega
- Polygala Vulgaris
References
- “Polygala amara.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282743. Accessed 28 June 2021.
- “Polygala amara.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:691694-1. Accessed 28 June 2021.
- “Bitter Milkwort (Polygala amara).” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/btmilkwortx.htm. Accessed 28 June 2021.
