Polygonum pensylvanicum — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Polygonum pensylvanicum

Polygonum Pensylvanicum

Updated · 30 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Persicaria pensylvanica (syn. Polygonum pensylvanicum) is a species of flowering plant in the buckwheat family, Polygonaceae. It is native to parts of North America, where it is widespread in Canada and the United States. It has also been noted as an introduced species in parts of Europe and South America. Common names include Pennsylvania smartweed and pinkweed.

A note from PlantMom

Pennsylvania smartweed is fairly resistant to disease and is generally not easily affected by illnesses. However, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment, and these problems are typically mild. The plant needs a moderate level of care. Regular pruning is required to keep it looking good and to support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also encourage flowering. Pennsylvania smartweed is well suited for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive gardening experience. It may need more attention if grown indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Polygonum Pensylvanicum.

Light

Pennsylvania smartweed prefers spots that get full sun. Such exposure encourages healthy growth, promotes maximum leaf expansion, and supports stronger root development. This preference matches its native open, unshaded habitat. Both too much sun and too little light can negatively affect its growth and health.

Temperature

Pennsylvania smartweed is a plant accustomed to temperate climates and thrives in temperatures of 68 to 95 °F (20 to 35 ℃). It favors warm weather but can endure cooler conditions. Maintaining these temperature requirements year-round produces optimal growth.

Fertilizer

Pennsylvania smartweed responds well to regular, light applications of fertilizer to encourage healthy leaf development. You should apply fertilizer about once a month during the summer. Nitrogen is important for foliage, and providing nitrogen-rich sources helps Pennsylvania smartweed thrive.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Annual
Genus
Polygonum
Family
Polygonaceae
Hardiness Zone
6
Mature Height
0.1 m to 2.13 m
Mature Spread
30 cm to 46 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
Pink, Purple
Flower Size
0.51 cm to 1.52 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Autumn, Winter
Harvest Time
Mid summer, Late summer
Native Area
Cuba, Haiti, Mexico, Georgia, Dominican Republic
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Pennsylvania smartweed en Curlytop Knotweed en Green Smartweed en Pale Persicaria en Pale Smartweed en Pinkweed en Pennsylvania Knotweed en Pinweed en Annual smartweed en Pink smartweed
PLATES
Polygonum pensylvanicum leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Polygonum pensylvanicum leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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