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Description
Polygala Myrtifolia, also known as the September bush, is a flowering shrub that belongs to the Polygalaceae family. This evergreen plant is native to South Africa and is commonly grown for ornamental purposes. The September bush can grow up to 3 meters tall and 2 meters wide, making it an ideal garden plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Polygalaceae |
| Genus | Polygala |
Appearance
The Polygala Myrtifolia has a dense, upright growth habit with dark green, glossy leaves that are lance-shaped and up to 4 cm long. The plant produces small, pink or purple flowers in clusters from late summer to early winter. The flowers have a unique shape, with two large outer petals and three smaller inner petals that form a tube. The September bush is an evergreen plant, meaning it retains its leaves throughout the year.
Care Guide
The Polygala Myrtifolia is a relatively low-maintenance plant, making it an ideal choice for gardeners of all levels. Here are some tips on how to care for your September bush:
Water: The September bush prefers well-draining soil and does not like to sit in water. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry periods.
Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer to promote healthy growth and strong blooms.
Soil: The September bush prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline, add some peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH.
Sunlight: The Polygala Myrtifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade may result in leggy growth and fewer blooms.
Hardiness Zones: The September bush is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Polygala Myrtifolia is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some common issues to look out for:
Pests: The September bush may attract spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. If you notice any infestations, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Diseases: The September bush may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, ensure the soil is well-draining and only water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Habitat
The Polygala Myrtifolia is native to the Cape Province in South Africa, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including rocky outcrops, coastal sand dunes, and scrubland. In its natural habitat, the September bush provides food and shelter for a variety of insects and birds.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Polygala Myrtifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the September bush can be grown in containers, but it will require more frequent watering and fertilization.Q: How often should I prune my Polygala Myrtifolia?
A: Prune your September bush in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the plant. Avoid pruning after the plant has started to produce buds.Q: How long does the flowering season of the Polygala Myrtifolia last?
A: The September bush typically flowers from late summer to early winter, depending on the climate and growing conditions.Q: Is the Polygala Myrtifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that the September bush is toxic to pets. However, as with all plants, it is best to keep them out of reach of curious animals.
Related Plants
- Polygala Chamaebuxus
- Polygala Comosa
- Polygala Corymbosa
- Polygala Dalmaisiana
- Polygala Dalmatica
References
- “Polygala Myrtifolia (September bush).” PlantZAfrica. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 06 Aug. 2021.
- “Polygala Myrtifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 06 Aug. 2021.
- “Polygala Myrtifolia.” Plant Care Today. Plant Care Today, n.d. Web. 06 Aug. 2021.
