Persicaria sp. 'Kawagoeanum' Care Guide
Persicaria sp. 'Kawagoeanum' is an Asian stem plant with narrow willow-like leaves that flush orange-red to pink under strong light and CO2.
Overview
Persicaria sp. 'Kawagoeanum' is a fast-growing aquatic stem plant in the family Polygonaceae (knotweeds), native to Asia and possibly corresponding to Persicaria kawagoeana of East Asia. It has narrow, willow-like leaves about 8-12 cm long and 0.6-1 cm wide that shift to glowing orange-red to pink tones under strong light and CO2.
Taxonomy
- Family: Polygonaceae
- Genus: Persicaria
- Scientific name: Persicaria kawagoeanum
- Synonym: Polygonum kawagoeanum
Habitat
The plant originates in Asia (Japan and the wider East Asian region). It is grown as an aquarium plant valued for its coloration and motion in the midground.
Growth requirements
- Water type: freshwater
- Temperature: 23-27 °C (73-81 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.0
- GH: 2-10 °dGH
- Lighting: high; bright light brings out colour
- CO2: beneficial; high CO2, phosphate and iron and a 6500-8000 K light intensify colour
The plant thrives with nutrient-rich substrate and steady macro- and micronutrient dosing. Unlike many knotweeds its growth is not strictly upright; it branches at short intervals to form a dense, easy-to-maintain bush.
Placement
Used as a midground stem plant or trimmed low for a colourful groundcover; the KB record lists a maximum height around 30 cm. As stems mature, lower leaves may drop, so regular trimming and replanting of tops keeps the display tidy.
Propagation
Propagation is by cuttings: top cuttings are replanted while the remaining base produces new side shoots.