Persicaria sp. 'Kawagoeanum'

A narrow-leaved fast-growing knotweed from Asia. In the trade it is also labeled Persicaria sp. 'Red' and Polygonum sp. Kawagoneum. It develops beautiful pink to orange-red colours under water, given that the light is intensive (at least 0.5 watts/litre). The form of the leaves reminds of willow leaves, they grow to a length of around 8 to 12 cm and to a width of 0. 6 to 1 cm. Persicaria (or Polygonum) sp. 'Kawagoeanum' (sometimes also called Polygonum sp. 'Pink') is a relatively new aquarium plant. It is still not quite clear which species it belongs to, it could be Persicaria kawagoeana (= Polygonum kawagoeanum) from East Asia, though. Like most knotweeds, it inhabits wet locations like bogs, ditches or riverbanks. It grows above as well as below the waterline. Accordingly, Persicaria sp. 'Kawagoeanum' can be cultivated emersed as well as submersed. It is not regularly found in pet stores or online shops, and is usually more readily available from other hobbyists. P. sp. 'Kawagoeanum' is often mistaken for Persicaria (Polygonum) sp. 'Sao Paulo', and it has been in trade under that erroneous name, too. For differentiation, please see the description of Persicaria sp. 'Sao Paulo'. The cultivation of P. sp. 'Kawagoeanum' is not especially difficult if its basic requirements are met. It may not be a suitable plant for low-tech aquaria, however, it is still useful for most aquarists. Strong light from metal halide lamps, compact or T5 lamps is recommendable, as this plant will only then develop a highly intensive pink-orange colour. Strong light will also reduce its (totally normal) tendency to lose its lowermost leaves. High levels of CO₂, phosphate and iron as well as a light colour temperature of 6500 to 8000 Kelvin also contribute to an intensive colour. Furthermore, this plant does not tend to have growth problems. Emersed cultivation will lead to a significantly increased growth rate even though it may not grow under optimal conditions. Under intensive artificial light or under sunlight, the leaves will develop a rather attractive V-shaped brown spot on their upper side (comparable to spotted lady's thumb, a plant frequently found in Europe).

Flowgrow

Narrow-leaved red stem plant Orange-red to pink hues Loosely upright ramified growth habit

Polygonaceae

Persicaria

Background

easy

fast

need

5-7

18-30℃

0-14 dKH

0-30 °dGH

Cuttings

yes

very colourful plant for accents