Contents
Description
Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red, commonly known as Himalayan fleece flower, is a low-growing perennial plant that is native to the Himalayas. It belongs to the Polygonaceae family and is a popular ground-cover plant due to its dense foliage and attractive flowers. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and 60 cm in width, with a spreading growth habit. It is known for its long-lasting, bright red flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Persicaria |
Appearance
The Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red plant has oval to lance-shaped leaves that are dark green in color and are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves are 5 to 10 cm long and 2.5 to 5 cm wide. The plant produces clusters of bright red flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are produced on spikes that can be up to 20 cm long. The plant has a spreading growth habit and can form dense mats in the garden.
Care Guide
Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers in shady areas.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common pests and diseases that may affect the plant:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can chew on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug and snail bait to control them.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red is native to the Himalayas but can be found in gardens and landscapes around the world. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and can be found growing in meadows, woodlands, and along streams and rivers.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red a good ground-cover plant?
A: Yes, Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red is an excellent ground-cover plant due to its spreading growth habit and dense foliage.
Q: How often should I water Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red?
A: The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Q: Can Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red tolerate shade?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers in shady areas.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Related Plants
- Persicaria Amplexicaulis
- Persicaria Bistorta
- Persicaria Polymorpha
References
- “Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red.” RHS Gardening, Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12304/Persicaria-affinis-Darjeeling-Red/Details.
- “Persicaria Affinis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292434.
