Polygala serpyllifolia
heath milkwort
Overview
Polygala serpyllifolia is a slender, low-growing perennial 1.5-10 inches (4-25 cm) tall, with thin, wiry, often sprawling stems rising from a woody base. The small leaves are narrow and oval, 0.2-0.4 inch (5-10 mm) long, and at least the lower pairs are arranged opposite one another, a trait that separates the species. Short racemes carry a few flowers, each about 0.25 inch (6-7 mm) long, usually deep blue but sometimes pink, mauve, or white. Two enlarged petal-like sepals (wings) flank the small fused petals, and the flowers open from May to August. Small flattened capsules follow. The plant grows close to the ground in a loose mat among heath and grassland vegetation and is easily hidden by taller plants. It is confined to acid, low-nutrient soils and does not grow on lime. Foliage is semi-evergreen, persisting in mild winters and dying back in hard ones.
Native Range
Native to western and central Europe, from the British Isles and Iberia east to central Europe and north into Scandinavia. It grows on acid heaths, moorland, bog margins, and short, unfertilised grassland on poor, well-drained, lime-free soils, from lowland to upland elevations.Suggested Uses
Grown in heathland restoration, acid wildflower areas, rock gardens, and peat or sand beds on lime-free soils, set among low, open vegetation. Suited to poor, acid, sunny ground rather than borders or rich soil. Flowers draw small bees and other insects in early summer.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1" - 10"
Width/Spread4" - 8"
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 5-9 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight