Polygala

Polygala myrtifolia, also known as Myrtle-leafed Polygala, is the most widely planted species of Polygala shrub in gardens in mild climate regions. It is easy to grow, hardy, and blooms abundantly. Its foliage, evergreen, is light but dense, bushy and nicely rounded. It produces beautiful clusters of small bicoloured pea-like flowers in successive waves, white and purplish-pink, sometimes all year round. An indispensable bush in mild climates and coastal areas.

Polygala hybrid 'Bibi Pink' is a small bush with dense, bushy, compact and rounded growth, covered with small evergreen leaves of a beautiful slightly greyish green. From June to October it is covered with numerous small bicoloured pea-like flowers, mauve-purple and pale pink. Resistant to drought, it can be grown in the ground or in pots, depending on the climate, and should be stored away in winter.

Polygalas find their place in small hedges, Mediterranean shrub beds and rockeries, in mild climates, in the company of Melaleuca, Leptospermum, Medicago arborea, evergreen Ceanothus, abelias and escallonias. They are hardy down to -5°C (23°F) in well-drained soil. They appreciate ordinary well-drained soil and a sunny exposure. They are well-suited for coastal gardens, due to their tolerance to strong winds and soil and air salinity.