Few plants outperform pink knotweed, Polygonum capitatum, in the fall. The plant blooms throughout the spring and
summer, but it's in autumn when most things in the garden are finished that pink knotweed really shines.
This groundcover spreads quickly and can cover a large area, but regular edging can easily keep it in check. The plant is considered invasive in warmer coastal regions of California, but not in our area. Burgundy tinged foliage and pink/red
stems are attractive even when not in bloom.
Pink knotweed grows in sun or shade. In our area, it appreciates some afternoon shade in the summer, so Polygonum works well as an under planting for trees and shrubs. It looks best with regular water, but is fairly drought tolerant once established.
Additional facts:
- Tolerates poor/sandy soil
- Hardy in zones 7-11
- Foliage will die back with a hard freeze but returns quickly in the spring. Remove dead foliage/stems by cutting to the ground in late winter.
- If space is limited, Polygonum can be used in raised beds or containers, where it will trail attractively.
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