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Herbaceous Perennial

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

Synonyms
Polygonum filiforme
Antenoron filiforme
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
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 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
H6
Botanical 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

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