Persicaria maculosa
kiss-me-over-the-garden-gate
An annual plant, up to 1m high in flower, with jointed stems and narrowly ovate green leaves, often with dark, almost black blotches in the centre. Produces dense upright spikes of small, deep pink buds, opening to pale pink flowers from mid summer to early autumn
Other common names
lady's pinchlady's thumb
see morepeachwort
persicaria
redleg
redshank
crab's claw
redshanks
Synonyms
Polygonum persicaria
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Black | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green Black | ||
| Autumn | Pink | Green Black | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Persicaria can be annuals, herbaceous or evergreen perennials or sub-shrubs with simple leaves and small bell-shaped white or pink flowers in long-lasting spikes or panicles
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grows in most moist conditions, thrives in rich and acidic soils.
Propagation
Propagate by seed; self-seeds freely
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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