Polygala chamaebuxus — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Polygala chamaebuxus

Polygala Chamaebuxus

Updated · 1,195 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Polygala chamaebuxus, commonly known as the Box-leaved Milkwort, is a small evergreen shrub belonging to the Polygalaceae family. Native to Europe and Asia, it thrives in rocky areas, heaths, and open woodlands. Typically, the plant grows up to 30 cm in height with a spread of 60 cm.

The leaves of Polygala chamaebuxus are small, box-like, and feature a glossy dark green color. The plant produces clusters of pink or purple flowers that bloom from late spring through summer. While the individual flowers are small, they are numerous, creating an attractive display.

Polygala chamaebuxus is easy to grow and prefers well-drained soil in either full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate drought conditions once established but requires regular watering during its first year of growth.

The Box-leaved Milkwort also boasts several medicinal properties, thanks to its content of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory effects used to treat respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis.

Overall, Polygala chamaebuxus is an eye-catching evergreen shrub with beautiful pink or purple flowers. It not only adds color to any garden setting but also provides medicinal benefits for respiratory issues, making it an excellent choice for any garden enthusiast seeking both beauty and functionality from their plants!

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Polygala
Family
Polygalaceae
Hardiness Zone
6
Mature Height
15 cm
Mature Spread
30 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Yellow, White, Pink
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
Bloom Time
Spring
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Summer
Native Area
Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Romania, Croatia, Slovenia, France
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Shrubby milkwort en Bastard box en Box-leaved milkwort
PLATES
Polygala chamaebuxus leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Polygala chamaebuxus leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Polygala chamaebuxus flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Polygala chamaebuxus flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Polygala chamaebuxus fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Polygala chamaebuxus fruit
PLATE 06 · fruit
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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