Species knotweed
Green-black leaves, green stems, lime-yellow buds, white midrib, blades and veins

knotweed

Persicaria virginiana

Knotweed (Persicaria virginiana) is an upright perennial plant native to eastern and central parts of North America. It is an erect, herbaceous, heat-resistant plant with a red-tinged stem and a gray-green leaf. Its flowers, which appear from late summer to early fall, are small and inconspicuous. The plant's stems and leaves have a distinctive triangular shape and a branching growth habit, giving it a somewhat knotted or tangled look. Knotweed is an excellent choice for landscaping or borders, as it provides attractive structure and can fill in spaces to create an attractive garden backdrop. The plant is hardy and requires minimal maintenance. Its leaves and stems are fragrant and can be dried and used in potpourri.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation,Stem Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

White to greenish-white, rarely pink Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Knotweed (Persicaria virginiana) should be watered about once a week, but requires more frequent watering in dryer months or in warm environments. Water until the top inch of the soil is damp, ensuring the root system of the plant gets enough moisture. During particularly dry periods, it may require an additional mid-week watering. Knotweed is best grown in moist, well-drained soil and does not tolerate drought-like conditions. Avoid over-watering and allow the top 2 inches of the soil to become dry between waterings.

sunlight

Knotweed (Persicaria virginiana) prefers direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. The best time for the plant to receive sunlight is during the warmer months of the year - in the spring, summer and fall. During the winter, the sunlight should be indirect. It is important to ensure that the plant is receiving the proper amount of sun, as too much exposure can damage the leaves and scorch valuable foliage.

pruning

Knotweed (Persicaria virginiana) should be pruned once or twice a year, depending on your desired growth. Pruning once in late spring is usually recommended, after the plants have finished flowering. Pruning at this time can help to keep the plant tidy and promote new growth. Summer pruning can also be done in late July or August, trimming off the plant's top growth while still leaving a few new shoots in place. This will encourage the plant to produce bushier, more compact new growth. Knotweed should be pruned sparingly, as overpruning can weaken the plant and reduce flowering.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Persicaria virginiana typically starts flowering in late June or early July.

Hardiness Map