Shrubby Milkwort Polygaloides chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora'
ABOUT
The plant known as Polygaloides chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora', commonly referred to as Shrubby Milkwort, has a distinctive and appealing morphology. It boasts an evergreen nature, which means it retains its leaves throughout the seasons, providing a constant display of foliage. The leaves themselves are small, oval-shaped, and leathery, with a rich, deep green color that can sometimes have a glossy sheen, contributing to its visual interest year-round. A prominent feature of Shrubby Milkwort is its flowers. They typically bloom in early spring and can extend their display into summer. The flowers are quite showy and larger than those of the species' standard form. They often come in a vibrant yellow color with a deeper, orange-yellow throat, adding a bright splash of color to the plant. Some blossoms may also appear in shades of creamy white and are accentuated by a purple or reddish tinge, providing a striking contrast against the green foliage. This plant has a compact and bushy growth habit, forming a rounded and dense shape that is full of texture. Its evergreen leaves, coupled with its lively and colorful flowers, make it an attractive choice for gardeners looking to add year-round interest to their gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polygalaceae
Synonyms
Shrubby Milkwort, Box-Leaved Milkwort, Large-Flowered Polygala
Common names
Polygala chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora'
ToxicityTo humans
The Polygaloides chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora', more commonly known as the Shrubby Milkwort, is considered mildly toxic to humans if ingested. It contains saponins, which can cause gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if consumed in significant quantities. It is important to exercise caution and keep this plant out of reach of children who might be tempted to eat its parts.
To pets
The Shrubby Milkwort is mildly toxic to pets as well. If ingested by animals such as dogs or cats, they may experience similar symptoms to those in humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially loss of appetite due to the plant's saponin content. Pet owners should ensure that their pets do not have access to this plant to prevent any accidental poisoning.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Value: Polygaloides chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora', commonly known as Shrubby Milkwort, has attractive yellow and purple flowers that enhance garden aesthetics.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is quite hardy and requires minimal upkeep once established, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels.
- Drought Tolerance: The Shrubby Milkwort can tolerate dry conditions after it's established, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Ground Cover: Its low-growing habit makes it a good ground cover, suppressing weeds and reducing soil erosion.
- Long Blooming Season: It has a long flowering period, from spring to summer, providing a prolonged display of color.
- Cold Hardy: It can survive in colder climates, making it suitable for gardens in temperate zones.
- Wildlife Attraction: The flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Versatility: Shrubby Milkwort can be used in rock gardens, borders, and alpine gardens, making it a versatile choice for various landscaping themes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Miniature Hedge: Due to its small size and slow growth, Polygaloides chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora', commonly known as Shrubby Milkwort, can be used to create low, miniature hedges in fairy gardens or small-scale landscapes.
- Ground Cover: Shrubby Milkwort can serve as an evergreen ground cover, effectively suppressing weeds and covering bare spots in the garden.
- Butterfly Garden: It is a nectar-rich plant that can attract butterflies and other pollinators, making it a pleasant addition to butterfly gardens.
- Rock Gardens: Well-suited for rock gardens due to its ability to thrive in well-drained soil and its low, sprawling habit.
- Containers: Can be utilized as an attractive container plant, decorating balconies, patios, or to accentuate entryways with its colorful blooms.
- Trainable Bonsai: The woody nature and small leaves make Shrubby Milkwort a candidate for bonsai cultivation, allowing enthusiasts to train it into miniature tree forms.
- Alpine Slides: Perfect for alpine slides where it can mimic the high-altitude flora and create a mountainous landscape aesthetic.
- Floral Arrangements: While not common, the colorful flowers can be used in small, fresh cut floral arrangements for a unique, delicate touch.
- Winter Garden Interest: It maintains its foliage in mild winters, providing greenery and interest in an otherwise dormant garden season.
- Garden Borders: Its compact growth habit and evergreen foliage make it ideal for defining garden borders without overtaking neighboring plants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Polygala chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora', commonly known as Shrubby Milkwort, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant Polygala chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora', commonly known as Shrubby Milkwort, is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Persistence: The Polygala, also known as Milkwort, often symbolizes persistence due to its hardy nature and ability to grow in various conditions.
- Protection: In some cultures, Milkwort is believed to offer protection, likely because some species of Polygala contain compounds used in traditional medicine.
- Frivolity: The Polygala's bright and whimsical flowers can represent a light-heartedness or frivolity, suggesting an enjoyment of life's pleasures.
WaterFor the Dwarf Milkwort, water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season in spring and summer. Water it approximately once a week or more during hot, dry spells. Depending on the size of the plant and the environmental conditions, a rough estimate would be to provide about half a gallon every week. In cooler weather or when the plant is dormant in the winter, reduce watering frequency to prevent root rot. Always check the soil before watering; if the top inch is dry, it's time to water.
LightDwarf Milkwort thrives best in partial shade to full sun conditions. It's ideal to place it in a spot where it can receive morning sunlight and partial shade in the afternoon. Avoid exposing it to the harsh afternoon sun in hotter climates, as this can cause stress to the plant.
TemperatureDwarf Milkwort is a hardy plant that can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 80°F. For optimal growth, maintaining a temperature range between 50°F and 70°F is ideal. Protect the plant from extreme cold by providing mulch or moving it to a sheltered location if it is potted.
PruningPrune Dwarf Milkwort in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This encourages bushier growth and a neat habit. Deadheading after flowering promotes additional blooms. Pruning every year or every other year is adequate to maintain its shape and vigor.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Shrubby Milkwort, a well-draining soil mix with peat, sand, and loam is ideal. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingShrubby Milkwort should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth.
Humidity & MistingShrubby Milkwort thrives in moderate humidity levels but will tolerate dry air once acclimated.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Shrubby Milkwort in bright indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Shrubby Milkwort in partial shade to full sun outdoors.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cyclePolygaloides chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora', commonly known as Kew Chamaebuxus or Box-leaved Milkwort, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination gives rise to a small seedling. The seedling stage is marked by the establishment of a root system and the growth of initial leaves. As it matures into a vegetative plant, it develops a woody structure and evergreen foliage with distinctive shiny, box-like leaves. During its flowering phase, typically in early spring through late spring, the plant produces vibrant, large yellow flowers, sometimes with purplish margins, that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the plant sets seed in the form of capsules, which will eventually dry and open to release seeds for the next generation. Throughout its life, which may last several years, the plant will undergo cycles of growth, flowering, and dormancy, particularly in regions with cold winters, and may spread by rooting along the stems to form a low, dense ground cover.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
Polygaloides chamaebuxus 'Grandiflora', commonly known as Shrubby Milkwort, is most commonly propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings during late summer. To propagate, choose a healthy, semi-hardwood stem, typically around 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long. Strip the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage growth. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring the bottom half is buried. Provide consistent moisture and cover with a plastic bag or place in a propagator to maintain high humidity. The cutting should root within a few weeks, at which point it can be gradually acclimatized to ambient conditions before being planted out in the garden the following spring.
