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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

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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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