Polygala calcarea explained

Polygala calcarea, the chalk milkwort, is a species of flowering plant in the family Polygalaceae, native to western Europe. It is a delicate mat-forming evergreen perennial growing to 5cm (02inches) tall by 20cm (10inches) broad, with spikes of small, vivid deep blue flowers in spring, and leathery, oval leaves.[1]

Etymology

The specific epithet calcarea means "growing in lime", though this plant will grow in a range of soils.[2]

Cultivation

It prefers sharply drained conditions, and is suitable for cultivation in an alpine garden.

Cultivars

The cultivar 'Lillet' has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[3] [4]

Notes and References

  1. Book: RHS A-Z encyclopedia of garden plants. 2008. Dorling Kindersley. United Kingdom. 1405332964. 1136.
  2. Book: Harrison, Lorraine. RHS Latin for gardeners. 2012. Mitchell Beazley. United Kingdom. 9781845337315. 224.
  3. Web site: RHS Plantfinder - Polygala calcarea ‘Lillet’. 7 May 2018.
  4. Web site: AGM Plants - Ornamental . July 2017 . 80 . Royal Horticultural Society . 7 May 2018.