Mild Water-Pepper
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(Persicaria mitis)
Mild Water-Pepper (Persicaria mitis)
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© Steven Lamonde
CC BY 4.0
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© Steven Lamonde
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Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: © Steven Lamonde | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Uploader: slamonde | Publisher: iNaturalist |
Summary
Persicaria mitis, commonly known as Mild Water-pepper, is a perennial herb native to a variety of habitats across Europe, including riverbanks, damp meadows, and marshy areas. It is often found in wet, fertile soils where it forms dense stands. This plant typically grows to a height of 20-70 cm (8-28 inches) and has a spreading habit. The leaves are lance-shaped with a characteristic reddish-brown blotch in the center. Persicaria mitis blooms from late summer to early autumn, producing small, pinkish-white flowers that are arranged in slender, elongated spikes. While not particularly showy, the flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees.
Mild Water-pepper is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in rain gardens, water features, and as a ground cover in damp areas of the garden. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring consistently moist soil and partial to full sun exposure. It is not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, but can occasionally suffer from rust or mildew in poor air circulation or overly dry conditions. Gardeners should monitor its growth in non-native regions to prevent excessive spread.CC BY-SA 4.0
Mild Water-pepper is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions and is often used in rain gardens, water features, and as a ground cover in damp areas of the garden. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring consistently moist soil and partial to full sun exposure. It is not commonly afflicted by serious diseases or pests, but can occasionally suffer from rust or mildew in poor air circulation or overly dry conditions. Gardeners should monitor its growth in non-native regions to prevent excessive spread.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 1-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: White, Pink
- Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Drainage: Medium, Slow, Standing
Common Uses
Low Maintenance, Water Garden
Natural Habitat
Riverbanks, damp meadows, and marshy areas in Europe
Other Names
Common Names: Small Water-pepper, Lax-Flowered Persicaria, Mild Waterpepper
Scientific Names: Persicaria mitis, Persicaria dubia, Persicaria hydropiper subsp. mite, Persicaria hydropiper subsp. mite, Persicaria hydropiper subsp. mitis, Persicaria hydropiper subsp. mitis, Persicaria hydropiper var. eglandulosa, Persicaria laxiflora, Persicaria mitis
GBIF Accepted Name: Persicaria mitis