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Annual Biennial

Persicaria maculosa

redshank

An annual plant, up to 1m high in flower, with jointed stems and narrowly ovate green leaves, often with dark, almost black blotches in the centre. Produces dense upright spikes of small, deep pink buds, opening to pale pink flowers from mid summer to early autumn

Other common names
lady's pinch
lady's thumb
see morepeachwort
persicaria
redleg
redshank
crab's claw
redshanks
Synonyms
Polygonum persicaria
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Black
Summer Pink Green Black
Autumn Pink Green Black
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
Yes
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

How to grow

Cultivation

Grows in most moist conditions, thrives in rich and acidic soils.

Propagation

Propagate by seed; self-seeds freely

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

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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