Persicaria Affinis Darjeeling Red

2-3 Litre Pot

• RHS Award of Garden Merit
• Position: Full sun, partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well drained
• Growth Rate: Average
• Flowering Period: Summer-Autumn
• Hardiness: H7
• Eventual Height: 0.1 – 0.5m
• Eventual Spread: 0.1 – 0.5m

Persicaria Darjeeling Red, also known as ‘Knotweed’ and holder of the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. It has a dense, spreading habit and can grow up to 1/2 metre tall and wide.  The plant has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that are slightly glossy and grow to about 10cm in length. The leaves have a slightly wavy margin and turn reddish-brown in the Autumn. The flowers are small, pinkish-red, and grow in spikes that are 5 – 10cm long. The flowers bloom from Summer through to Autumn and are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Persicaria Darjeeling Red thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil. The plant is tolerant of a range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils. It is hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°C.

This Persicaria is an excellent choice for ground cover, borders, and rock gardens. It adds a pop of colour to any garden and attracts pollinators. The plant is also suitable for container gardening, and its spreading habit makes it an ideal choice for filling in gaps in garden beds.

How to care for your Persicaria Darjeeling Red

• Sun and soil: Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, but it performs best in fertile, humus-rich soil. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure.
• Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and frequently enough to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Fertilisation: Does not require regular fertilisation. However, if the plant is not growing well, you can apply a balanced fertiliser or a slow-release fertiliser according to the instructions.
• Pruning: Does not require regular pruning. However, you can cut back the plant in the Autumn to about 5 cm from the ground to prevent damage from Winter weather. Deadheading the spent flowers can promote more blooms.
• Propagation: Can be propagated by division in the Spring or Autumn. Simply dig up the plant, divide it into smaller sections, and replant in a suitable location.

By following these care tips, you can ensure that your Persicaria Darjeeling Red will thrive and provide you with years of beautiful foliage and blooms.