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Description
Polygala Magdalenae, commonly known as Magdalena sweet pea or Magdalena polygala, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Polygalaceae family. This plant is native to Colombia and can grow up to 3 meters tall. It is often used for medicinal purposes, and its flowers are used as an ingredient in perfume production.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Polygalaceae |
| Genus | Polygala |
Appearance
The Magdalena sweet pea has lance-shaped leaves that are around 10 centimeters long. Its flowers are pink or purple and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant blooms from May to July, and the flowers have a sweet fragrance. The fruit is a small capsule that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Magdalena sweet pea is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a range of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The plant should be watered regularly, but avoid over-watering.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade or full sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Magdalena sweet pea is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Magdalena sweet pea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if over-watered or grown in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Magdalena sweet pea is native to the Magdalena River valley in Colombia. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions with altitudes of up to 1,800 meters. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soils and can be found in forests, savannas, and along rivers and streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Magdalena sweet pea toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Magdalena sweet pea is toxic to pets.
Q: Can Magdalena sweet pea grow in containers?
A: Yes, Magdalena sweet pea can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should Magdalena sweet pea be fertilized?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: When is the best time to prune Magdalena sweet pea?
A: Prune Magdalena sweet pea immediately after flowering to help maintain its shape.
Related Plants
- Polygala myrtifolia
- Polygala paucifolia
- Polygala paniculata
- Polygala senega
References
- “Polygala magdalenae.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c505.
- “Polygala magdalenae Kunth.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed August 16, 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:692295-1.
- Stiles, Ezra. “Polygala magdalenae.” Floridata. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/916.
