Tufted milkwort
Polygala comosa · Polygalaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant tufted milkwort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Polygalaceae
- Form
- Herbaceous
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April-July)
- Mature size
- 30 to 50 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Moderate (zones 5-8)
- Origin
- Mountainous regions of central and southern Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained soil, slightly calcareous
Care
Exposure
Install your hairy milkwort in full sun or partial shade to encourage abundant flowering. Direct light for 4 to 6 hours daily is ideal. In warm regions, afternoon partial shade protects from scorching.
Watering
Water regularly during growth to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in late summer and autumn. In winter, let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Soil and drainage
Prepare a light, well-draining substrate enriched with organic matter. Hairy milkwort appreciates slightly calcareous soils. Improve drainage by adding sand or gravel if your soil is heavy.
Pruning and cleaning
Prune lightly after flowering to compact the shape and encourage denser branching. Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring. Excessive pruning is not recommended.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced fertilizer or one slightly rich in phosphorus in spring and early summer. A single application of well-decomposed compost in spring is usually sufficient for this low-maintenance plant.
Problem prevention
Monitor excess moisture which promotes root rot and powdery mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid watering the foliage. This plant is generally robust and rarely susceptible to pests.
Did you know?
The name "Polygala" comes from the Greek "poly" (multiple) and "gala" (milk), as the ancients believed this plant increased milk production in livestock. Hairy milkwort remains little-known to amateur gardeners, although botanists appreciate it for the uniqueness of its flowers which are often bluish or pinkish in color.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Common milkwortPolygala vulgaris
- Polygala serpyllifoliaPolygala serpyllifolia
- Polygaloides chamaebuxusPolygaloides chamaebuxus
- Polygala amarellaPolygala amarella
- Chalk milkwortPolygala calcarea
- Myrtle-leaved milkwortPolygala myrtifolia
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.