The knotweed family is very large: around 48 genera and more than 1200 different varieties are known worldwide. In addition to perennial and climbing knotweed, there are also ground-covering species, of which the dwarf knotweed in particular is often and gladly planted. Like all knotweed, this one is also extremely vigorous.

Knotweed is perfect as a ground cover: it is easy to care for and grows quickly

Pretty pink flowers from June to September

The knotweed (Bistorta affinis) forms dense, flat, mostly winter or evergreen carpets, which also come up with delightful, pink flower spikes between July and September. The species thrives in moderately nutrient-rich, moist soil and prefers light-shaded to partially shaded locations. Heat (e.g. in full sun) is generally poorly tolerated. This species is ideal as a surface filler.

Interesting Varieties

Of course, one knotweed is not the same as another. The different varieties differ mainly in terms of their growth height and the intensity of the flower color.

Surname blossom heyday leaves growth habit growth height
superbum Panicle, bright pink July to September dark green, lanceolate clump-like, bushy 15 to 30 cm
Darjeeling Red spike, pink-dark purple July to September lanceolate clump-forming, ground-covering 15 to 25 cm
kabouter Ear of corn, red and white July to September dark green, red autumn colour low, ground covering 5 to 20 cm
dimity Panicle, rose-dark purple July to September dark green, red autumn colour bushy, clump-forming 15 to 25 cm
Donald Lowndes spike, pink July to September bright green flat 10 to 25 cm

Undemanding and eager to grow

Bistorta affinis is considered quite undemanding and very willing to flower. Occasional periods of drought are usually survived well, only waterlogging is not tolerated - as by many plants. However, the knotweed is very keen on growing, which is why you must check its growth regularly and limit it if necessary. It is best, however, to limit growth from the outset, for example by digging a bed border made of stone that is as deep as possible - the species spreads through root suckers.

Caring for the knotweed properly

Like the knotweed, the knotweed needs a lot of water and should therefore be watered regularly. When it comes to fertilization, the incorporation of mature mixed compost and other organic fertilizers (e.g. horn shavings) is sufficient. Dwarf knotweed is propagated either by division or by shoot cuttings.

tips and tricks

If you are looking for a perennial knotweed, the meadow knotweed is a good choice. This also has the advantage that its young shoots are edible as vegetables.

Category:

Herbs