Myrtle leaf milkwort
Polygala myrtifolia
Family: Polygonaceae
What it is like
A sprawling shrub. It grows 2 m tall. The young parts can be velvety. The leaves point upwards and are narrow with edges the curl back. The flowers are large and in short groups at the ends of the branches. They are purple and the side petals have 2 lobes. The lower lobe is longer.
Where it is found
It is a subtropical plant. It grows on rocky slopes.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Australia, South Africa (country/location of origin), Southern Africa, St Helena, Tasmania
How it is used for food
The nectar of the flowers is eaten as a snack.
The flowers are especially sucked by children.
Edible parts
Flowers - nectar
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Septemberblom, Septemberbossie