Polygala myrtifolia

Polygala myrtifolia
Polygala myrtifolia

Common names: september bush (English); ulopesi, ulapesi, umabalabala (Xhosa); uchwasha (Zulu); septemberbossie, augustusbossie, blouertjie, langelede (Afrikaans). 
Botanical name: Polygala myrtifolia

Polygala myrtifolia, also known as September bush, is a versatile and attractive evergreen shrub that produces masses of mauve, purple, pink, scarlet, or white flowers throughout the year. It is a pioneer plant that adapts to various habitats, from coastal dunes to inland mountains. It belongs to the milkwort family, and has antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal properties, and was traditionally used by the Cape Malays for washing their dead. It is easy to grow from seed or cuttings, and can be used as a windbreak, hedge, or colourful accent in the garden. It prefers full sun to semi-shade, and is drought-tolerant once established.

Uses & Benefits: hedge, pot plant

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Nature & Cultivation

Family: Polygalaceae
Type: shrub, tree
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Flower colour: pink
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Plant-animal interactions: bees
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Use as Medicine

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