Persicaria acris Plant Care

Persicaria acris (Persicaria acris) belongs to the Polygonaceae family within the Persicaria genus. Persicaria acris is native to Australia, New Zealand, temperate Asia, Europe and North America.

Persicaria acris displays a spreading, clumping perennial growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 2 ft. Persicaria acris produces small, spiky flowers in various colors.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Persicaria acris requires watering every 3–5 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Persicaria acris thrives in full sun to part shade.

Persicaria acris grows best at temperatures of 50–80°F. Persicaria acris prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Persicaria acris to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Persicaria acris every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Persicaria acris can be propagated through division, seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to water pepper plant care, which shares the same genus.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Persicaria acris is susceptible to aphids, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Persicaria acris grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. Persicaria acris is native to Australia, New Zealand, temperate Asia, Europe and North America. In cooler regions, grow Persicaria acris as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.