Northwest Blooms · Perennials
Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Firetail'
Firetail Mountain Fleece
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Height
- 3 to 4 feet
- Width
- 2 to 3 feet
- Flower color
- Bright red, bottlebrush-like flowers
- Foliage color
- Dark green, lance-shaped leaves with a slightly reddish tint
- Bloom time
- Summer to fall
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Cut back after flowering to encourage fresh growth; may need to be divided every 2 to 3 years
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds
About this plant
Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Firetail' is a perennial known for its long-lasting, dense clusters of bright red, tubular flowers that bloom in late summer to fall. These flowers are borne on tall, slender stems and provide a vibrant contrast to the plant's rich green foliage. As the blooms age, they often transition to a soft pink, adding an interesting dimension to the plant's appearance.
Native to parts of Asia, this variety of Persicaria is a robust and versatile plant, ideal for borders, water gardens, or as a backdrop in perennial beds. It is particularly valued for its ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The plant's unique flower clusters, combined with its compact growth habit, make it an excellent choice for adding color and texture to late-season landscapes.
Works well in
Borders · Cottage Gardens · Pollinator Gardens · Hummingbird Gardens · Cut Flower Gardens
Companion plants
Sedums · Columbines · Lungworts · Daylilies · Japanese anemones · Bleeding hearts
Design tip
Fall bloom is its strength, and it earns a place near a path or seating area used late in the year. Because it is easy about light, use it to carry a planting from a sunny end of the bed into the shadier side.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Bellevue Botanical Garden, and at the Center for Urban Horticulture.
