Persicaria filiformis
Loose-spike Smartweed · Asian Jumpseed
Description
Source: wikipedia (CC BY-SA)Persicaria filiformis is a species of flowering plant in the family Polygonaceae, native to the Kuril Islands, Japan, Korea, Myanmar, the Philippines and Vietnam. It was first described as Polygonum filiforme in 1784 by Carl Thunberg and transferred to the genus Persicaria in 1819 by Takenoshin Nakai. The species has been treated as the variety filiformis of Persicaria virginiana, a North American species. The leaves are light green, eliptical, and about 15 cm (5.9 in) long. They are commonly marked with a pair of brown spots near the center of the leaf.
🌳 Asian jumpseed may not be widely recognized for its uses in human industries, but it does serve an important role as a food source for certain wildlife. Its seeds have been seen to attract a variety of bird species, and its plentiful foliage provides shelter and nourishment for insects. This interaction is often overlooked, yet it remains a crucial part of the ecosystem, helping local wildlife species survive and thrive.
Care Guide
💧 Water
Asian jumpseed thrives in moist environments and requires consistently hydrated and evenly moist soil. To support its growth, it should be watered weekly. Being an herbaceous perennial, it also benefits from natural rainfall, which promotes lush foliage during the growing season.
☀️ Light Full sun
Asian jumpseed does best with abundant sunlight but can still grow in locations with moderate light. Because it comes from ecosystems rich in sunlight, it can withstand a high amount of sun. Too much sun exposure, or too little, can negatively impact its health and growth.
🌡️ Temperature 5–32.2°C
Asian jumpseed can adjust to a broad range of temperatures, though its distribution may still be limited by different combinations of moisture and heat. It does best in warm summer climates with adequate rainfall or watering. Extended periods of cloudy, rainy weather or prolonged high temperatures can raise the likelihood of Asian jumpseed dying. In winter, proper protection from cold can increase the plant's chances of survival.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 5-7
🌱 Fertilizer
One spring application of fertilizer is generally enough for Asian jumpseed, though multiple feedings can maximize growth. Fertilize about once a month to every six weeks. Feeding improves the leaves' appearance and function, helping maintain even color and a healthy texture. It also encourages root development and nutrient uptake for the plant's long-term health.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
Asian jumpseed has arching stems and elongated leaves. To maintain its health and appearance, prune this plant from early to late spring, removing any dead stems to encourage new growth. Thinning also promotes better airflow, and pruning after flowering can enhance future blooms. To minimize the risk of disease and improve the plant's vigor and aesthetics, use clean tools and make precise cuts.
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Persicaria
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-10
- Mature Height
- 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 91 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Blue
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- White, Pink
- Flower Size
- 0.25 cm to 0.51 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
- Native Area
- Russia, India, Vietnam, Myanmar, Japan, Philippines, Koppen, Bhutan, Pakistan, South Korea, China