Dealing with Myrtle-leaf Milkwort

21 December 2023

by Grace de Keersmaeker, Conservation Ranger

One of the Conservation team’s recent woody weed sweeps completed has been the Painkalac Creek dunes. In this location we are largely dealing with Myrtle-leaf Milkwort (Polygala myrtifolia). Polygala is an environmental weed which is native to South Africa. However, as this species is salt tolerant, it thrives in this coastal environment and Australian climate.

These weeds are fire sensitive but germinate massively after burning. The seedlings form dense carpets under adult plants which smothers all associated vegetation. The seeds are dispersed by water and also by ants.

This species flowers from late winter to spring with an identifiable bright purple flower.

Weed management for this weed is hand pulling or cut and paint for larger ones. Management for this species is listed in our Coastal Vegetation Strategy against objectives based on presence in certain locations.

Keep your eyes peeled for this pesky one!