Myrtle-leaf milkwort. Polygala myrtifolia
Native to Africa
Found along sections of the coast south of Port Macquarie. Grows on dunes, headlands and edges of estuaries.
Myrtle-leaf milkwort is a growing problem in Victoria where it occupies similar habitats to Boneseed.
Another closely related species is ‘Polygala virgata’ it has a slender form with very similar flowers. Polygala virgata is found between Port Macquarie and Sydney growing on disturbed sites near roads, tracks and gullies.
Form: Erect dense shrub up to 5m high.
Flower: Purple to pale lilac. Can flower all year, may only flower in spring.
Fruit/Seed: Produces capsules.
Control: Small seedlings can be pulled by hand, more mature plants can be dug out.
Chemical controls are available. Cut andpaint with herbicide can be effective.