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Description
Polygala Polygama, also known as Racemed Milkwort or Purple Milkwort, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Polygalaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in moist meadows, fields, and open woods. It can grow up to two feet tall with a spread of about one foot. Polygala Polygama is mostly grown for its ornamental value due to its beautiful purple flowers that bloom in the summer months. The plant has a long blooming period, making it an attractive addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Polygalaceae |
| Genus | Polygala |
Appearance
Polygala Polygama has an upright growth habit with lance-shaped leaves that are about two inches long. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and are a light green color. The plant produces clusters of purple flowers that grow on spikes that can be up to six inches long. Each flower is about a quarter inch in length and has three petals that are fused together. The plant blooms from June to September and produces a small capsule fruit that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Polygala Polygama is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:- Water: This plant prefers moist soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil. Amend the soil with compost before planting.- Sunlight: Polygala Polygama prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, provide some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polygala Polygama is relatively pest and disease-free. However, like most plants, it can be susceptible to a few issues:- Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be treated with a fungicide.- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider Mites: Tiny, spider-like insects that feed on the plant’s sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Polygala Polygama is native to North America and can be found in moist meadows, fields, and open woods. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant can grow up to two feet tall and has an upright growth habit.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polygala Polygama a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Polygala Polygama is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can I grow Polygala Polygama in a container?
A: Yes, Polygala Polygama can be grown in a container as long as it has enough room to grow and the soil is kept moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Polygala Polygama?
A: Fertilize Polygala Polygama once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How should I prune my Polygala Polygama?
A: Prune your Polygala Polygama in the spring before new growth appears. Cut back any dead or damaged stems and shape the plant as desired.
Related Plants
– Polygala Senega- Polygala Vulgaris- Polygala Myrtifolia- Polygala Chamaebuxus
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden: Polygala Polygama– University of Florida: Polygala Polygama– Wildflower Center: Polygala Polygama
