Persicaria microcephala Red Dragon (Knotweed)

Well-behaved, Persicaria microcephala ‘Red Dragon’ (Knotweed) is a vigorous, clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial boasting lance-shaped, burgundy leaves adorned with a bold blue-gray chevron in their center when young.

Well-behaved, Persicaria microcephala 'Red Dragon' (Knotweed) is a vigorous, clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial boasting lance-shaped, burgundy leaves adorned with a bold blue-gray chevron in their center when young. As they mature, they turn silver-purple and finally green. From midsummer to early fall, tiny white flowers cluster at the tips. A dense groundcover, spreading less quickly than the species.

  • Grows up to 30-36 in. tall and wide (75-90 cm). This plant will get bigger over time but does not run.
  • Thrives in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Soils should be kept evenly moist.
  • A welcomed addition to beds and borders, cottage gardens or mixed containers.
  • Virtually pest and disease free. Deer and rabbit resistant.
  • Cut back in fall.
  • Propagate by stem tip cuttings or by division.

Requirements

Hardiness 6
– 8

Plant Type Perennials
Plant Family Persicaria – Fleeceflowers
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Summer (Mid,Late)Fall
Height 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spread 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spacing 30″
– 36″
(75cm
– 90cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Semi-Evergreen
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Garden Uses Banks and Slopes, Beds and Borders, Ground Covers, Ponds and Streams
Garden Styles Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow