Persicaria filiformis
A clump-forming, deciduous perennial to 1.4m, with attractive ovate yellow-green leaves with dark red blotches and upright spikes of airy coral-red flowers on dark stems appearing from summer through until the autumn. Suitable for the middle of a flower border
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow Green Red | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Yellow Green Red | ||
| Autumn | Red | Yellow Green Red | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- 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 moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back old, flowered stems to the ground in autumn
Pests
Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to slugs and snails
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Love gardening
Sign up to receive regular gardening tips, inspiration, offers and more
View our Privacy Policy
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.