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AquaticBogsHerbaceous Perennial

Persicaria amphibia
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

amphibious bistort

A perennial marginal or aquatic plant, with long, slightly glossy green leaves with paler green veins. Produces short spikes densely packed with tiny pink flowers, from mid summer to early autumn

Other common names
amphibious knot grass
floating polygonum
see moreground willow
water buckwheat
willow grass
heart's ease
water willow
Synonyms
Polygonum muhlenbergii
Polygonum amphibium
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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
H7
Botanical details
Family
Polygonaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Submerged, Floating
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 as a marginal or bog plant, in moist soil, or as an aquatic plant, at up to 80cm depth. Flowers best in full sun. Lower young aquatic plants in stages, allowing them to grow at each stage until the leaves float on the surface of the water. Divide regularly to avoid congestion. May have the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well. See pond plants and bog gardens for further advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed or by division

Suggested planting locations and garden types
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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