B&Q Lincolnshire Pond Plants Ltd Marginal Plants

B&Q Price Was £12.50 STORE HOMEPAGE First seen in Aug 2024

Description

Polygonum amphibium, commonly known as Water Knotweed, Swamp Smartweed, or Amphibious Bistort, is a versatile and hardy perennial plant in the Polygonaceae family. Water Knotweed is unique in its ability to grow both submerged in water and on land. In its aquatic form, the plant features long, slender, floating stems that can extend up to 3 feet or more. The leaves in this form are typically lance-shaped, smooth-edged, and float on the water's surface, providing habitat and shelter for aquatic life. In its terrestrial form, the plant has erect, hairy stems that can reach 1 to 3 feet in height, with broader, more ovate leaves.During the summer, Polygonum amphibium produces dense, cylindrical spikes of small pink to reddish flowers. These flower spikes rise above the water or foliage, creating a striking visual display that attracts various pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and other insects. The flowers are followed by small, shiny seeds that contribute to the plant's propagation.Water Knotweed prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in consistently moist to wet soils. It is particularly well-suited for planting along the edges of ponds, in bog gardens, or in any area where the soil remains damp. The plant can tolerate a range of water depths, from shallow margins to deeper waters, making it highly adaptable to different aquatic environments.In terms of care, Polygonum amphibium is relatively low-maintenance. It requires regular watering to maintain its preferred moist conditions, especially during dry periods. The plant spreads via rhizomes and can form dense colonies, which may require occasional management to prevent it from becoming too invasive in certain settings.Overall, Polygonum amphibium is a versatile and attractive plant that enhances the beauty and ecological health of water gardens and wetland areas.