Contents
Description
Persicaria Careyi is a perennial plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is a native of North America and is commonly known as Carey’s Smartweed. This plant has a unique appearance that adds charm to any garden. It blooms in late summer and early fall, with tiny pink flowers that add a pop of color to the landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Persicaria |
Appearance
Persicaria Careyi has lance-shaped leaves that are light green in color. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stem and can grow up to 5 inches long. The plant can reach a height of up to 3 feet and can spread up to 2 feet. In late summer and early fall, Persicaria Careyi blooms with tiny pink flowers that grow in clusters. The flowers are about 1/8 inch wide and have a unique cone shape.
Care Guide
Persicaria Careyi is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:
Water
Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during winter.
Soil
Persicaria Careyi prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight
Plant Persicaria Careyi in an area that receives full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate shade but blooms better in full sun.
Hardiness Zones
Persicaria Careyi is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Persicaria Careyi is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be prone to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Persicaria Careyi is native to North America and can be found growing in wetlands, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate some dryness.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Persicaria Careyi?
A: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the ideal pH for Persicaria Careyi’s soil?
A: Persicaria Careyi prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Q: What is the ideal hardiness zone for Persicaria Careyi?
A: Persicaria Careyi is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Q: How tall can Persicaria Careyi grow?
A: Persicaria Careyi can reach a height of up to 3 feet and can spread up to 2 feet.
Related Plants
- Persicaria polymorpha
- Persicaria amplexicaulis ‘Firetail’
- Persicaria affinis ‘Superba’
References
- “Persicaria careyi – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 28, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c463.
- “Carey’s Smartweed.” Fine Gardening. Accessed June 28, 2021. https://www.finegardening.com/plant/careys-smartweed-persicaria-careyi.
- “Persicaria careyi.” Plant Lust. Accessed June 28, 2021. https://www.plantlust.com/plant-finder/persicaria-careyi/.
