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Himalayan Smartweed (Polygonum capitatum or Persicaria capitata)
Pink Knotweed, Pink Clover. Originating from the foothills of Nepal, China and India, this sturdy and attractive ground cover has become known as an invasive plant in parts of California, Oregon, and Hawaii, as it will quickly cover a bare patch of ground forming a dense mat with masses of sweet pink flowers.
Why are we including a potentially invasive perennial in our catalog you may wonder?? It so happens that Himalayan Smartweed has important medicinal properties. Used traditionally by Hmong Tribes people as an anti-bacterial remedy, modern studies have shown that a tea from the aerial parts of the plant are highly effective in treating bladder and kidney infections. Chinese medical research has deemed Himalayan Smartweed as an herb with great potential for numerous applications and it is easily cultivated for sustainable production.
Very drought tolerant once established the spreading ground cover and stays about 6 inches tall, but can cover a wide swath if allowed. Prefers full sun and cannot handle a sustained freeze. Perennial. Zone 9.
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