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Alpine RockeryHerbaceous Perennial

Polygala calcarea 'Lillet'

milkwort 'Lillet'

'Lillet' is a compact mat-forming evergreen perennial to 5cm in height, with small, leathery dark green leaves and short terminal racemes of white-tipped, bright blue flowers 7mm in length from late spring to summer

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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Blue White Green
Summer Blue White Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Polygalaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Matforming
Genus

Polygala can be annuals, evergreen perennials or shrubs, with simple leaves and racemes of somewhat pea-shaped flowers

Name status

Accepted

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moderately fertile, humus-rich, sharply drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Can also be grown in pots in an alpine house

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in pots in an open frame in autumn. Propagate by taking softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings in mid to late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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