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Description
Persicaria Senticosa, also known as Polygonum Senticosum or Bistorta Senticosa, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to China, Japan, and Korea. It belongs to the family Polygonaceae and is commonly grown for its attractive foliage and showy pink flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Persicaria |
Appearance
The leaves of Persicaria Senticosa are lance-shaped and have a glossy green color with a purple tint. They can grow up to 10 inches long and 4 inches wide. The plant produces tall stems that can reach up to 3 feet in height and are topped with clusters of small pink flowers. The flowers bloom in mid to late summer and are a favorite of bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Persicaria Senticosa is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: This plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil damp but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Persicaria Senticosa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant can tolerate partial shade, but it prefers full sun to produce the best flowers.
- Hardiness Zones: Persicaria Senticosa is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Persicaria Senticosa is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fungal leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Persicaria Senticosa is native to China, Japan, and Korea, where it grows in moist, shady areas such as forest edges and stream banks. It can also be found in wetlands and meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Persicaria Senticosa deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is generally deer-resistant.
Q: Can Persicaria Senticosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its size and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Persicaria Senticosa?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
Q: Does Persicaria Senticosa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s pink flowers are a favorite of bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Persicaria Amplexicaulis
- Persicaria Bistorta
- Persicaria Polymorpha
- Persicaria Virginiana
References
- “Persicaria Senticosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b736.
- “Persicaria Senticosa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/216738/persicaria-senticosa/details.
- “Persicaria Senticosa.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/persicaria-senticosa-turtlehead.
