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Description
Persicaria Microcephala Red Dragon, also known as Bistort or Knotweed, is a popular ornamental plant that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. It is native to China and has gained popularity in other parts of the world due to its beautiful foliage and flowers. The plant is a herbaceous perennial that grows up to 60 centimeters in height and spreads up to 90 centimeters in width. It is an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Persicaria |
Appearance
The leaves of Persicaria Microcephala Red Dragon are lance-shaped and have a deep burgundy color with a silver V-shaped marking in the center. The flowers are small, pink, and bloom in late summer to fall. The plant has a clump-forming habit and produces a dense mound of foliage, making it an excellent choice for ground cover. The plant has a moderate growth rate and can be propagated through division.
Care Guide
Water: Persicaria Microcephala Red Dragon prefers moist soil, so it is essential to water it regularly. However, it is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant is not heavy feeders, and regular fertilization is not necessary. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help promote healthy growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve moisture retention and drainage.
Sunlight: Persicaria Microcephala Red Dragon prefers partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for shady areas of the garden.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Persicaria Microcephala Red Dragon is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Persicaria Microcephala Red Dragon is native to China and can be found growing in meadows and forest edges. It prefers moist and shady habitats and can be grown in similar conditions in the garden.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Persicaria Microcephala Red Dragon be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Persicaria Microcephala Red Dragon is an excellent choice for container gardening.
Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: Adding a slow-release fertilizer once a year during the growing season is sufficient.
Q: Can I propagate the plant through cuttings?
A: No, the plant is typically propagated through division.
Q: How often should I water the plant?
A: Persicaria Microcephala Red Dragon prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, it is essential not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Related Plants
- Persicaria amplexicaulis
- Persicaria capitata
- Persicaria hydropiper
- Persicaria maculosa
- Persicaria odorata
References
- “Persicaria Microcephala ‘Red Dragon'” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b788.
- “Persicaria Microcephala ‘Red Dragon'” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/94526/Persicaria-microcephala-Red-Dragon/Details.
- “Persicaria Microcephala ‘Red Dragon'” Plant Lust, www.plantlust.com/plants/6997/persicaria-microcephala-red-dragon.
