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Key characteristics

Family: Polygonaceae
Height: 16 to 24 inches
Width: 16 to 36 inches
Flower color: Rose-pink to red
Foliage color: Green with a dark red central chevron
Bloom time: Late summer to early fall
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Regular; prefers average, well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low; may spread via rhizomes; consider containing to prevent unwanted spreading
Growing zone: USDA zones 5 to 10
Wildlife: Attracts butterflies; deer-resistant

Groundcovers

Persicaria virginiana 'Lance Corporal'

Lance Corporal Knotweed

Persicaria virginiana 'Lance Corporal' is a deciduous perennial native to regions spanning the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of China. It blooms from late summer to early fall, producing slender, rose-pink flower spikes that resemble fireworks. The plant features bright green, heart-shaped leaves, each adorned with a contrasting dark red chevron on the upper surface.

'Lance Corporal' spreads via underground rhizomes, forming dense colonies that make it suitable for use as a groundcover.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Regular; prefers average, well-drained soil

Bloom time

Late summer to early fall

Find this plant

Works well in

Woodland Gardens
Borders
Pollinator Gardens
Slopes & Banks

Companion plants

Ajugas · Ninebarks · Astilbes · Autumn ferns · Carex · Japanese forest grasses

Design tip

Plant this bold foliage perennial in generous drifts where its colorful leaves can weave through neighboring plants and create repeating patterns. Surround it with contrasting foliage, graceful grasses, and upright flowering companions to build depth, texture, and seasonal interest.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)