Poke Knotweed

Koenigia phytolaccifolia

Native to:
United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Polygonaceae
Genus:
Koenigia
Species:
Koenigia phytolaccifolia
USDA Symbol:
POPH

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
200 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
white, greenish

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Caterpillars:
★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Gaeides editha

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers high organic matter content

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 60–90 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds require cold stratification for 60-90 days; sow in fall or after stratification in spring.