Scientific Name: Bistorta affinis (previously known as Persicaria affinis)
Common Names: Himalayan Fleece Flower, Lesser Knotweed, Knotweed
Origin: Native to the Himalayan mountains, ranging from Afghanistan to southwestern China.
Description:
Growth Habit: Low-growing, mat-forming perennial, spreading by rhizomes.
Height: Typically 6-10 inches tall (15-25 cm)
Spread: Can spread up to 2 feet (60 cm) wide or more
Leaves: Small, oval to lance-shaped, deep green turning reddish-bronze in autumn.
Flowers: Tiny, pink to red flowers densely packed in upright spikes, blooming from mid-summer to autumn.
Growing Conditions:
Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but tolerates a wide range of conditions.
Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Uses:
Ground Cover: Excellent for covering slopes, suppressing weeds, and adding color to borders.
Rock Gardens: Thrives in rocky or gravelly soil.
Erosion Control: Helps stabilize soil on slopes.
Pollinator Attractor: Flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Maintenance:
Watering: Water regularly during dry periods, especially in the first year after planting.
Pruning: Can be sheared back in spring to encourage new growth.
Dividing: Divide every few years to control spread and maintain vigor.
Additional Notes:
Not Invasive: Unlike some knotweed species, Bistorta affinis is not considered invasive.
Drought Tolerant: Once established, it becomes fairly drought-tolerant.
Deer Resistant: Rarely bothered by deer.
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