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
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| 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
H7Botanical 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
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.