Persicaria 'Purple Spears'

A sensational clump forming herbaceous perennial with upright stems of carmine purple florets through summer and autumn. The elongated, bright green foliage forms a lush, dense base.

Persicaria 'Purple Spears' is a fabulous filler, rock garden plant, or could be utilised along the garden edges or in containers. It is vigorous and hardy without taking over. A favourite in the designs of Piet Oudolf and Chrys Ghyselen, it is a popular plant in the new Perennial Movement.

Persicaria can cope with a range of garden soils (including clay) and is long lived.

Persicaria 'Purple Spears' flower heads can even be left stand into winter. Beneficial insects and birds adore these blooms. The flowers and foliage are suitable for picking too.

Plant in moderately fertile to humus rich soil, though they are quite adaptable and can make their way in poorer and drier soils. Ideal in a full sun to part shade position. Water to establish then only if rainfall is low. Dry tolerant once it settles in but versatile enough to thrive in a bog garden or by a pond. Cut back spent foliage early spring or winter to make way for the fresh growth. Divide spring/autumn as required.

Syn. Bistorta amplexicaulis, common names include Knotweed, Mountain Fleece, Fleece Flower and Bistort.