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Annual Biennial

Persicaria orientalis

gentleman's cane

An annual plant, to around 1.5m high, with jointed stems and ovate to heart-shaped, slightly hairy green leaves. Produces long, sometimes pendent tassels of small, deep pink flowers, on slender branching stems from mid summer to autumn

Other common names
prince's feather
princess feather
Synonyms
Polygonum orientale
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Pink Green
Autumn Pink Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Polygonaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
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

Plant range
E&SE Asia, Australia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows in a wide range of soils and conditions, flowers best in full sun

Propagation

Propagate by seed; self-seeds freely

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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