Polygala serpyllifolia
Polygala serpyllifolia · Polygalaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant polygala serpyllifolia: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Polygalaceae
- Type
- Perennial herb
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- Spring to early summer (April-June)
- Mature size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Hardiness
- Hardy, down to -15°C
- Origin
- Central and western Europe
- Exposure
- Sun to partial shade
Care
Exposure
Install your thyme-leaved polygala in full sun or partial shade for optimal growth and flowering. This species tolerates slightly shaded areas but flowers more generously in full light. Avoid overly hot exposures in Mediterranean regions.
Soil and drainage
Choose well-drained, light and rather poor soil, neutral to slightly acidic. This plant tolerates poor and rocky soils, typical of chalky lawns or rock gardens. Avoid overly rich substrates and especially stagnant moisture.
Watering
Water moderately during establishment, then reduce considerably once the plant is established. This perennial herb resists summer drought well and prefers a dry regime to a wet one. Increase watering slightly during prolonged heat waves.
Fertiliser
No fertiliser is needed; this plant thrives in poor soils. Excess fertility promotes foliage at the expense of flowering and can weaken its robustness.
Pruning and cutting
Remove faded flowers to extend the flowering period. In late winter or early spring, you can lightly cut back the clump to maintain a compact shape. Simply cleaning out dead stems is usually sufficient.
Diseases and pests
This species is robust and rarely affected by disease if drainage is ensured. Excessive winter humidity can cause root rot. No major pests reported; the plant benefits from excellent natural resistance.
Did you know?
The name 'Polygala' comes from the Greek polys (many) and gala (milk), as some species in the genus were once believed to increase milk production in livestock that grazed on them. Although unconfirmed today, this ancient belief persisted through the centuries and across European languages.
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
- Polygaloides chamaebuxusPolygaloides chamaebuxus
- Tufted milkwortPolygala comosa
- Polygala amarellaPolygala amarella
- Chalk milkwortPolygala calcarea
- Myrtle-leaved milkwortPolygala myrtifolia
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.