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BogsHerbaceous Perennial

Persicaria microcephala

small-headed knotweed

Densely covers the ground with distinctively-patterned ,reddish to dark green foliage spreading from stout rhizomes. The broadly oval leaves with distinctive brown and grey markings are held on short, winged stalks. Small, rounded heads of tiny white or pinkish flowers top branching stems to 60cm high, from midsummer to autumn

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver Purple
Summer Pink White Green Grey Silver Purple
Autumn Pink White Purple
Winter Bronze
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Polygonaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Trailing
Potentially harmful
Contact with all parts may irritate skin, the sap may cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
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

Grow in well-drained or moisture retentive soil in sun or part-shade. Dense groundcover, can be invasive so needs careful siting

Propagation

Propagate by seed in spring, or propagate by stem tip cuttings of non flowering shoots or by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Coastal
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover
Pruning

Cut back in autumn

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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