Polygala
This small herbaceous plant has until recently been insignificant in gardens and bushland. However, the current weather conditions have suited it and now it can be found growing in bigger numbers. It is now growing well in healthy bushland where it previously wasn’t seen. It’s also doing well in paddocks, gardens and lawns. Due to the plant being small and not growing in thick clumps, it’s unlikely to become a big threat, but it’s worth keeping an eye on to see it doesn’t displace other small native plants. It easy enough to hand pull but take care the woody base doesn’t break off. The smell of the root is where it gets the name Root Beer Plant.
Common name: Polygala, Root Beer Plant
Scientific name: Polygala paniculata
Native to: Tropical America
Family: Polygalaceae
Habit: Herb, 30cm tall
Dispersal method: Fruit
More information can be found in ‘Weeds of the Sunshine Coast’ p 106 First edition.
