Copse-bindweed
Fallopia dumetorum · Polygonaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant copse-bindweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to September, white or pink flowers
- Mature size
- 0.5 to 1.5 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Good, down to -15°C
- Origin
- Temperate Europe and Asia
- Soil type
- All soils, including poor and wet ones
Care
Light Exposure
Choose a location in full sun or partial shade for optimal growth. Hedge knotweed adapts very well to partially shaded spots, particularly in woodlands or along fences. It also tolerates sunny areas as long as it doesn't lack moisture during summer.
Watering
Water regularly during establishment (first spring-summer). Once well-rooted, this herbaceous plant tolerates dry periods thanks to its root system. Keep the soil moist during prolonged drought to prevent stunted growth.
Soil
This species is undemanding and thrives in almost any soil. However, it prefers well-drained and slightly moist substrates. Avoid heavily compacted soils by enriching them with coarse compost if needed.
Pruning and Cutting
Pruning isn't essential, but you can cut back the plant in late winter or early spring (March) before growth resumes. This promotes denser branching and a more compact form. Also remove damaged or diseased parts.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer is generally unnecessary in normal soil. A light annual application of organic matter (compost) on the surface in autumn is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would encourage foliage at the expense of flowering.
Diseases and Pests
This herbaceous plant is generally robust and rarely affected by serious diseases. Watch for excessive moisture in very poorly drained soil, which could promote rot. No major pests particularly affect this species.
Did you know?
Hedge knotweed owes its scientific name Fallopia to Girolamo Mercuriale, an Italian botanist, while the genus celebrates the characteristic red berries of the Polygonum genus. Historically, this herbaceous plant was used in country hedgerows as forage, and its ability to quickly colonize spaces makes it a pioneer in natural regeneration.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SorrelRumex acetosa
- Pink knotweedPersicaria capitata
- Mile-a-minute vineFallopia baldschuanica
- RhubarbRheum rhabarbarum
- Maidenhair vineMuehlenbeckia complexa
- Red bistortBistorta amplexicaulis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.