Water Pepper (Persicaria hydropiper)

Water Pepper

Also known as: Marsh-Pepper Smartweed, Redleaf, Marshpepper Smartweed, Common Smartweed, Mild Waterpepper, Marshpepper, Biting Persicaria, Smartweed, Coriandre Thai, Ciderage, Lakeweed, Red Leaves, Arsesmart, Sickleweed, Red Shank, Biting Knotweed

Water Pepper is an annual herb that prefers to grow in moist areas and shallow water. The oils in this plant can be irritating to the skin, and the taste is unpalatable for most livestock.

Scientific classification

Species

Water Pepper (Persicaria hydropiper)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

70 cm

Plant Height

45 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

White, Green, Red

Flower Color

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Water Pepper

Distribution of Water Pepper

Distribution Map

Water Pepper, known scientifically as Persicaria hydropiper, is indigenous to a wide range encompassing parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It has spread beyond its native regions to establish presence in parts of the Americas, Africa, Oceania, and New Zealand. Its notable adaptability has allowed it to thrive across various major regions globally.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Damp places, shallow water

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Water Pepper

Slender, nodding flower clusters with greenish-white hue and no petals; 0.1-0.2 inches (2-5 mm) in size.

Smooth, hairless stem with green to reddish hue, cylindrical shape, 0.1-0.4 inches (2.5-10 mm) thick.

Nut-like dark brown fruit, 0.1 inches (2-3 mm) long, flattened and granular textured.

Narrow, lance-shaped leaves with strong peppery taste, olive-green color, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) long.

Moisture-loving herb sprawls on ground with stems up to 20 inches (50 cm) long; red-tinged leaves.

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Care Guide for Water Pepper

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Thriving in wet environments, water Pepper prefers consistent hydration but can endure brief dry spells. Water weekly for robust growth. Predominantly grown outdoors to benefit from natural rainfall, water Pepper's adaptability to water availability highlights its resilience within wetland ecosystems.

Fertilize: Provide balanced nutrition fertilizers for water Pepper during growth for strong foliage and roots. Switch to high-nitrogen fertilizers to boost leaf growth every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer, tapering in fall. Always water water Pepper post-fertilization to avoid root burn, adjusting feeding based on growth stages.

Pruning: Water Pepper requires minimal pruning; however, dead or damaged stems should be trimmed in early spring. Regular pinching promotes bushiness and prevents legginess. Prune during the active growing season to maintain shape and control spreading, avoiding harsh cuts for vigor.

Propagation: Water Pepper is a spicy-flavored semi-aquatic perennial that thrives in moist environments. Propagation is primarily through fresh seeds, which should be sown shallowly in rich, consistently damp soil. Careful handling of seedlings is essential during potting-on to avoid root disturbance and ensure successful growth.

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Images of Water Pepper

Distribution of Water Pepper

Quickly Identify Water Pepper

Care Guide for Water Pepper

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