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Description
Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes, commonly known as Himalayan fleeceflower or fleeceflower knotweed, is a herbaceous perennial plant from the family Polygonaceae. It is native to the Himalayas and Western China, but has become naturalized in many parts of the world. The plant produces spikes of pink flowers that bloom from midsummer to fall. It is a popular choice for ground cover and borders due to its attractive foliage and long-lasting blooms.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Persicaria |
Appearance
Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes is a low-growing plant that reaches heights of 6-12 inches and spreads up to 24 inches. It has oval-shaped leaves that are green on top and reddish-purple underneath. The leaves are approximately 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant produces spikes of pink flowers that bloom from midsummer to fall. The flowers are approximately 4-6 inches long and 1 inch wide. The plant’s roots are rhizomatous, allowing it to spread easily.
Care Guide
Water: Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes prefers moist soil but can tolerate dry conditions once it is established. Water regularly, especially during dry periods.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and midsummer.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 soil.Sunlight: Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes is native to the Himalayas and Western China. It grows in rocky areas, meadows, and forest clearings. The plant has become naturalized in many parts of the world, including North America and Europe.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and provides good drainage.Q: Does Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but it can be cut back in late fall or early spring to encourage bushier growth.Q: Is Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.Q: How often should Persicaria Affinis Donald L Owndes be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring and midsummer.
Related Plants
– Persicaria amplexicaulis- Persicaria bistorta- Persicaria maculosa- Persicaria polymorpha
References
– The Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Persicaria affinis Donald L. Owdes. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/24147/Persicaria-affinis-Donald-L-Owdes/Details- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Persicaria affinis. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278778&isprofile=0&pt=2- Plants of the World Online. (n.d.). Persicaria affinis Donald. L. Owdes. Retrieved from http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60434392-2
