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Description
Polygonum Tenue, also known as slender knotweed or wiregrass knotweed, is a delicate plant that is commonly found in North America. It is a member of the Polygonaceae family and is considered a herbaceous perennial. Polygonum Tenue has slender stems that can grow up to 2 feet in length and its leaves are narrow and lance-shaped. It is a low-growing plant that is often found in sandy soil, open fields, and along roadsides. This plant is highly adaptable to different environmental conditions, making it an ideal choice for those who want to add a touch of green to their gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Polygonum |
Appearance
The Polygonum Tenue has slender stems that are green in color and can grow up to 2 feet in length. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, measuring up to 4 inches in length and 0.2 inches in width. The flowers of the Polygonum Tenue are small and pink to white in color, measuring up to 0.1 inches in diameter. The plant blooms during the summer months, from June to September, and its seeds are small and triangular in shape.
Care Guide
Polygonum Tenue is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of your Polygonum Tenue:
Water
Water your Polygonum Tenue regularly, but make sure not to over-water it. The plant prefers moist soil, but can tolerate periods of drought.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer to your Polygonum Tenue in the early spring to encourage growth and blooming.
Soil
The Polygonum Tenue prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight
The Polygonum Tenue prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade, but may not bloom as well in low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones
The Polygonum Tenue is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Polygonum Tenue is generally a disease-free plant, but can be affected by pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Polygonum Tenue is native to North America and is commonly found in open fields, along roadsides, and in sandy soil. It is a highly adaptable plant that can grow in a variety of environmental conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Polygonum Tenue an invasive species?
A: No, Polygonum Tenue is not considered an invasive species. However, it can spread quickly in certain environmental conditions.
Q: Can Polygonum Tenue be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Polygonum Tenue can be grown indoors in a sunny location or under grow lights.
Q: How often should I prune my Polygonum Tenue?
A: Prune your Polygonum Tenue as needed to maintain its shape and size. Deadheading the plant can also encourage additional blooming.
Q: How long does it take for Polygonum Tenue to bloom?
A: Polygonum Tenue typically blooms from June to September, depending on the environmental conditions and location.
Related Plants
- Polygonum aviculare
- Polygonum hydropiper
- Polygonum lapathifolium
- Polygonum persicaria
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Polygonum tenue. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281998&isprofile=0&
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Polygonum tenue. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=POTE
- Wikipedia. (2021, June 3). Polygonum tenue. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polygonum_tenue
