Reynoutria bohemica
Reynoutria bohemica · Polygonaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant reynoutria bohemica: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- August to October, white or cream flowers
- Adult size
- 1.5 to 2.5 m in height
- Growth
- Very fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Central Europe (Bohemia, Slovakia)
- Soil type
- Undemanding, tolerates poor to wet soils
Care
Watering
Bohemian knotweed tolerates humidity variations well and is satisfied with natural rainfall once established. Water regularly during the first year after planting to encourage root development. Avoid stagnant water that could rot the rhizomes.
Light exposure
Install this plant in full sun or partial shade. It adapts to many light conditions, though intense sunlight boosts its vigor and flowering. It also tolerates partial shade in mixed areas.
Pruning and cutting
Cut stems flush to the ground in late winter (February-March), before growth resumes. This annual pruning rejuvenates the clump and maintains a compact form. You can also partially cut back during summer if needed to control spread.
Soil and planting
Bohemian knotweed is undemanding and thrives on poor, acidic or neutral soils. It tolerates winter moisture and even periodically waterlogged areas. Improve the soil with compost at planting time, but no further additions are necessary.
Fertilization
No fertilizer is essential thanks to its natural hardiness and vigorous growth. Light compost in spring is enough to support its vegetation if the soil is particularly poor.
Diseases and pests
This plant is generally resistant to common diseases and pests. Nevertheless, watch for rhizome rot if there is prolonged stagnant moisture. No specific treatment is usually required under normal conditions.
Did you know?
Bohemian knotweed is one of the most feared invasive species in Western Europe, capable of colonizing hundreds of acres in just a few years. Its deep and fragile rhizomes can regenerate an entire plant from the smallest fragment, making eradication exceptionally difficult. Due to this invasive potential, it is banned or heavily regulated in several countries.
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
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.