Easy-to-care-for candleweed for lasting splashes of colour in the garden
Although the candle plant (Bistorta amplexicaulis) originates from the forests of the Himalayas, it has become increasingly popular in Germany in recent years because of its beauty and long flowering period. The knotweed was even named Perennial of the Year in 2012.
Properties of Persicaria amplexicaulis
Persicaria amplexicaulis, as it is still called, belongs to perennial plants and is therefore perennial and fairly easy to care for. Its flowering season begins in July and lasts well into October. Under the right conditions in the garden, this type of shrub can grow up to 120 centimetres tall. Even its 5 to 15 centimetre long flowers are a real eye-catcher in the garden, as they have a very interesting, wavy edge. From its dense foliage rise long stems with beautiful red candle-shaped flowers at their ends. There are also varieties with white or pink flowers.
Care of the candle bud
As already mentioned, Persicaria amplexicaulis does not require any special care. It is only important to choose the right location. For this Persicaria variety this is a sunny spot in the garden with loamy and nutrient-rich soil that retains moisture well. The plant will also thrive in partial shade.
The best time to buy the candle plant and plant it in the garden is spring. Although many people think of the famous Japanese herbaceous perennial plant when they think of candle plant, it grows horstically and does not spread invasively through runners, making it the ideal plant to beautify your garden for years to come.
In spring and autumn it is advisable to provide the knotweed with compost. In addition, it is good not to remove the dead plant leaves in autumn, but to leave them as a kind of mulch.
Candlewort is not susceptible to diseases and pests. The perennials are even bypassed by slugs.
Good neighbourliness in the flower bed
Candlewort is a valuable addition to any garden, as it is not only a real eye-catcher with its long red flowers, but also very popular with bees and a valuable food source for these endangered insects
When planted in groups, it has the visual effect of a sea of red flowers. However, it is important to pay attention to the distance between the plants. No more than eight Persicaria perennials should be planted per square metre.
This variety of the knotweed is also very suitable for planting around garden ponds and, because of its height, makes an excellent combination with various ornamental grasses. It also cuts a good figure as a neighbour to asters and flamecrops (phlox)
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