Contents
Description
Persicaria Amphibia, commonly known as the Aquatic Smartweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is a semi-aquatic plant that is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant has a creeping rhizome that produces erect stems that can grow up to 70 cm long. The leaves are oblong-lanceolate and measure 6-15 cm long and 2-5 cm wide. The flowers are small and pink or white and are borne on long spikes that are 5-12 cm long. The plant blooms from June to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Persicaria |
Appearance
The Aquatic Smartweed has a unique appearance, with its oblong-lanceolate leaves and long spikes of small pink or white flowers. The plant can grow up to 70 cm long and has a creeping rhizome that helps it spread. The leaves are green and measure 6-15 cm long and 2-5 cm wide. The flowers are borne on long spikes that are 5-12 cm long and bloom from June to September. The plant has a semi-aquatic nature and can grow in shallow water or moist soil.
Care Guide
The Aquatic Smartweed is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil or shallow water. Keep the soil or water level consistent to prevent the plant from drying out.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers moist, well-drained soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, but it can also grow in full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Aquatic Smartweed is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellow speckling on the leaves and webbing on the plant.
- Aphids: These pests can cause curling and distortion of the leaves.
Habitat
The Aquatic Smartweed is a semi-aquatic plant that can grow in shallow water or moist soil. It is native to North America, Europe, and Asia and can be found in wetlands, marshes, and along streams and rivers. The plant is a valuable source of food for waterfowl and other wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Aquatic Smartweed grow in full shade?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in full shade, but it prefers partial shade to full sun.
Q: What is the blooming period of the Aquatic Smartweed?
A: The plant blooms from June to September.
Q: Is the Aquatic Smartweed resistant to pests and diseases?
A: The plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly drained soil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Aquatic Smartweed?
A: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Persicaria hydropiper
- Persicaria lapathifolia
- Persicaria maculosa
- Persicaria pensylvanica
References
- “Persicaria amphibia (L.) Delarbre.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 14 June 2021. www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/.
- “Persicaria amphibia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 June 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/.
- “Aquatic Smartweed.” Minnesota Wildflowers. Accessed 14 June 2021. www.minnesotawildflowers.info/.
