Polygonum microcephalum
Red Dragon
Description
Source: leafsnapPolygonum microcephalum is a perennial edible shrubs growing up to 0.5m by 0.5m. This species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It is available in East Asia, Himalayas, Assam Nepal etc. Regional Names include Modhuxuleng in Assamese.
🌳 The colorful foliage of small-headed knotweed is chiefly used in ornamental gardens, giving them an aesthetic appeal that enhances garden landscapes. Moreover, when introduced into erosion-prone areas, its dense, mat-forming growth habit can stabilize soil, helping to mitigate erosion and support land rehabilitation.
Care Guide
💧 Water
☀️ Light Partial sun
For healthy development, the small-headed knotweed depends on moderate sunlight. It neither needs nor prospers in intense light. In its natural habitat it grows in dappled light. Excessive exposure can be damaging, while insufficient light leads to weak, stunted growth.
🌡️ Temperature 10–35°C
Small-headed knotweed comes from areas that experience variable temperature ranges. It thrives in temperatures from 50 to 95 °F (10 to 35 °C). Monitor the local climate and, when necessary, supply supplemental heating or natural shade.
💨 Humidity
🪴 Soil 6-7
🌱 Fertilizer
A single spring application of fertilizer is generally enough for Small-headed knotweed, though repeated feedings can boost growth. Apply every month to six weeks. Fertilizing improves leaf appearance and function, helping maintain even color and a healthy texture. It also encourages root development and nutrient uptake, supporting the plant’s long-term health.
🪴 Pot & Repot
✂️ Pruning
🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity
Characteristics
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Polygonum
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-9
- Mature Height
- 61 cm to 91 cm
- Mature Spread
- 61 cm to 91 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green, Silver, Purple, Bronze
- Leaf Type
- Semi-evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Pink
- Flower Size
- 2.54 cm to 5.08 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer
- Native Area
- Nepal, India, Vietnam, Bhutan, Bangladesh, China