Overview
Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Persicaria, part of the Polygonaceae family. Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates moist and well-drained soil soils. Suggested uses include borders, water gardens and naturalized areas.
About
Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form' is a cultivar of Persicaria in the knotweed family Polygonaceae. Persicaria comprises herbaceous species commonly referred to as knotweeds or smartweeds, with diverse stem and leaf forms. This cultivar produces flowers from July to September. Consult the supplier for specific notes on flower and foliage appearance.
About the genus
Persicaria is a genus of herbaceous flowering plants in the knotweed family, Polygonaceae. Plants of the genus are known commonly as knotweeds or smartweeds. It has a cosmopolitan distribution, with species occurring nearly worldwide.
Wikipedia contributors, "Persicaria", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Persicaria
In the garden
Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form' sits within the genus Persicaria (family Polygonaceae), a group of herbaceous plants often called knotweeds or smartweeds. Members of the genus display a variety of stem habits and leaf shapes, and their flower structures range from loose panicles to spike-like clusters. That botanical range explains why individual cultivars can differ in habit and appearance. Growers should follow the supplier’s cultivation notes for this specific cultivar because recommended aspect, soil type and hardiness can vary across Persicaria selections. Where those details are not provided, observe the plant after planting and adjust siting or soil to suit its established behaviour. Many gardeners assess performance over a season before finalising a location. In a UK garden this cultivar is most useful for adding summer flowering interest; plan its use where a July to September display is valuable. Plant it with perennials that have complementary flowering times so the bed has rhythm through the season. The plant’s defined flowering window — July to September — is its principal seasonal feature and should guide planting decisions.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Persicaria
- Sunlight
- full sun, partial shade
- Soil type
- moist, well-drained soil
- Soil moisture
- moist
Plant details
Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- herbaceous perennial
- Suggested uses
- borders, water gardens, naturalized areas
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form'
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerates partial shade; may spread vigorously
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth
- Propagation
- division, cuttings
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form'?
Prefers moist, fertile soil; tolerates partial shade; may spread vigorously.
Where is the best place to plant Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form'?
Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form' prefers full sun and partial shade.
What soil does Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form' need?
Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form' grows best in moist and well-drained soil soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form'?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
How do I propagate Persicaria rucinata 'Needham's Form'?
Division, cuttings.
More in the Persicaria genus
- Persicaria amp. 'Blackfield'

- Persicaria amp. 'TaurusKnotweed
- Persicaria amplex. 'Alba'Knotweed
- Persicaria amplex. 'Blackfield'Knotweed
- Persicaria amplex. 'Taurus'Knotweed