Persicaria polymorpha
Persicaria polymorpha is a dramatic upright perennial known for its towering plumes of creamy white flowers that resemble those of astilbe. Blooming from late spring through midsummer, it provides vertical structure and soft textural contrast in garden borders. Its bold coarse foliage makes it a statement plant even when not in bloom, and its clump forming habit allows it to naturalize without becoming invasive.
Height & Spread: 48 - 60 in x 48 - 60 in
Bloom Time: Late spring to midsummer
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, fertile, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Deer Resistance: Rarely browsed by deer or rabbits
Native Status
Persicaria polymorpha, though not native to North America, is a cultivated species from Asia that adapts well to temperate garden conditions and supports diverse landscapes with bold, non-invasive presence.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Its airy nectar rich blooms attract honeybees and native bees such as sweat bees and leafcutter bees throughout early summer.
Butterflies
- Frequently visited by Painted Ladies and Eastern Tiger Swallowtails feeding on its long lasting plumes.
Beneficial Insects
- Encourages lacewings and ladybugs that feed on aphids hiding in the foliage clusters.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Allow 48 - 60 in of space between plants to accommodate its large mounding form and ensure air circulation.
Landscape Placement:
- Ideal as a focal point or background plant in large borders, meadows, or naturalized areas. Combines well with ornamental grasses and other moisture loving perennials.
Companion Plants
- Ligularia dentata 'Desdemona' - Dramatic foliage and golden daisy like flowers accent the bright white blooms of Persicaria.
- Filipendula rubra 'Venusta' - Delicate pink plumes offer complementary color and a matching early summer bloom period.
- Thalictrum rochebrunianum - Wispy lavender flower sprays rise alongside the creamy spikes of Persicaria for a soft layered look.
- Rodgersia aesculifolia - Large textured leaves provide bold contrast and thrive in similar moist soil conditions.
- Astilboides tabularis - Huge rounded leaves offer architectural contrast and love the same moist shade.