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Description
Persicaria Glabra, also known as Smooth Smartweed or Redshank, is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is a native of Asia and is commonly found in China, India, and Japan. The plant has a smooth stem that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The leaves of Persicaria Glabra are alternate, lanceolate, and have a pointed tip. The flowers of this plant are small, pink, and bloom in the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Persicaria |
Appearance
Persicaria Glabra is a tall, erect plant with a smooth stem. The leaves of this plant are alternate, lanceolate, and have a pointed tip. The flowers of Persicaria Glabra are small, pink, and bloom in the summer months. The plant has a moderate growth rate and can reach a height of up to 1.5 meters. The leaves are green and smooth, providing a contrast to the plant’s pink flowers.
Care Guide
Water
Persicaria Glabra prefers moist soil and requires regular watering. The plant should be watered once a week or more frequently if the soil is dry.
Fertilization
Persicaria Glabra does not require frequent fertilization. However, a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Soil
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It can grow in a range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay.
Sunlight
Persicaria Glabra prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant may not bloom as profusely in these conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Persicaria Glabra is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Persicaria Glabra is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust if grown in damp conditions. Regular pruning and good air circulation can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Persicaria Glabra is native to Asia and can be found in China, India, and Japan. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and can grow in a range of soil types. It is commonly found in meadows and along the edges of forests.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Persicaria Glabra be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Persicaria Glabra can be grown in containers. However, the pot should be at least 12 inches deep to allow for the plant’s root system to develop fully.
Q: Does Persicaria Glabra require pruning?
A: Persicaria Glabra does not require pruning but can benefit from it. Pruning can help prevent the plant from becoming too leggy and promote bushier growth.
Q: Can Persicaria Glabra be grown indoors?
A: Persicaria Glabra is an outdoor plant and cannot be grown indoors. It requires full sun to partial shade and cannot tolerate low light conditions.
Q: Does Persicaria Glabra attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Persicaria Glabra is attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its pink flowers provide a source of nectar and pollen.
Related Plants
- Persicaria hydropiper
- Persicaria maculosa
- Persicaria amplexicaulis
- Persicaria odorata
References
- “Persicaria Glabra”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 2021-05-12.
- “Persicaria Glabra”. Plants of the World Online. Retrieved 2021-05-12.
- “Persicaria Glabra”. Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved 2021-05-12.
