Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this plant prefers well-drained conditions. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage in pots.
Also known as Common Polygala · Cross Flower · European Milkwort
Common Milkwort (Polygala vulgaris) is a low-growing perennial with delicate pink or purple flowers, found in meadows and coastal areas. It's valued for its natural charm
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Sandy, Loamy, Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures (15-24°C).
Low
25% intensity
Feed sparingly in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this plant prefers well-drained conditions. Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage in pots.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or weak stems. Pinching back young plants can promote a more compact habit.
Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the plant.
Propagate from seed sown in spring, or by taking basal cuttings in late spring or early summer. Seeds may require a period of cold stratification.
Cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining medium in a warm environment.
Repot young plants annually or biennially in spring. Mature plants can be repotted less frequently, only when root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a sandy loam.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Milkwort (Polygala vulgaris)
Where Common Milkwort (Polygala vulgaris) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Polygalaceae |
| Genus | Polygala |
| Species | Polygala vulgaris |
Similar in genus Polygala
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
