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| Category: Shrub |
| Family: Polygalaceae (Milkworts) |
| Origin: South Africa (Africa) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Purple |
| Bloomtime: Year-round |
| Synonyms: [P. myrtifolia var. dalmaisiana] |
| Parentage: (P. oppositifolia x P. myrtifolia) |
| Height: 3-5 feet |
| Width: 4-6 feet |
| Exposure: Sun or Shade |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Medium Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 15-20° F |
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PPolygala x dalmaisiana (Sweet Pea Shrub) - Thought to be a cross between Polygala oppositifolia and P. myrtifolia, this attractive fast growing shrub typically grows 3-5 feet tall with narrow 1 inch long dull green leaves and flowers that are a purplish pink with two winged petals that surround the whitish-purple lacy crest. In coastal climates this plant can be in bloom throughout the year. The flower color combination is not easy to combine with but can be used effectively with blue and white flowering plants. Plant in full sun or part shade with regular to little irrigation. Documented elsewhere as hardy to at least 24°F but we had plants survive our December 1990 freeze, sustaining temperatures throughout the night below freezing and several hours down to 18°F. It also tolerates a wide range of soil types but not heavy wet soil. The trunk and lower stems are often bare so trim or shear to keep compact. Not a particularly long lived plant but useful for its fast growth and continual flowering and its cut stems of flowers are great and last well in arrangements. The name Polygala is Latin from the Greek word 'polugalon' for "much milk" because of the belief that cows grazing on milkwort increased their milk production. The hybrid name "x dalmaisiana" dates back to a description in the "Revue Horticole" from 1844 and is often misinterpreted as a misspelling of "dalmatiana" as a geographical reference to Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, but is actually named for Mr. Dalmais, the French gardener who raised it from seed in 1839.
This description is based on research and observations of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in our nursery garden and in other gardens that we visit. We also incorporate comments received and appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have any additional information about this plant, particularly if they disagree with what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Polygala x dalmaisiana.
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