Polygala Bibi Pink

Polygala myrtifolia oppositifolia Bibi Pink  is a small shrub with a dense, bushy, compact and rounded vegetation, covered with small beautiful, slightly greyish green, evergreen leaves.  From June to October, it is covered with numerous small bicoloured pea flowers, which appear in successive waves, mixing a vibrant mauve-violet with pale pink.  Resistant to drought and hardier than its parents, it can be cultivated according to the climate, in the ground or in pots which can be stored away from frost in the winter.

The myrtle leaf Polygala Bibi Pink is a recent American creation, resulting from the cross-breeding of Polygala myrtifolia, native to South Africa, and Polygala oppositifolia, native to South America. Both of these species belong to the family Polygalaceae. It forms a small shrub about 80 cm (32in) to 1 m (3 ft) in height in all directions and has a compact and bushy habit. Its flowering is very bright, lasting about 9 months, from May-June until autumn. The flowers, gathered in clusters, are papilionaceous like those of the Fabaceae family, composed of 2 mauve-violet winged sepals and a pale pink lower petal. The stamens emerge from the flower, forming a white tuft. The foliage is evergreen, with green or purplish branches. The leaves are elliptical with a more pronounced light green midrib.

This Polygala will grow in small flower beds, borders, rockeries, or in low hedges in not too cold climates, alongside Ceanothus, Abelia, and Escallonia. It seems to withstand -12°C (10.4 °F), in well-drained soil. Elsewhere, it can be displayed in large pots that can be brought indoors in winter to protect them from frost. It is content with ordinary but very well-drained soil and a sunny position. It is highly recommended for coastal gardens, as it is very tolerant of strong winds and soil and air salinity.