Golden Arrow Knotweed Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Golden Arrow' (v)
ABOUT
The Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Golden Arrow', commonly referred to as the mountain fleece, features a striking contrast of foliage and flowers that creates a visual appeal in gardens. The most noticeable characteristic of this variety is its vibrant, golden-yellow leaves that offer a luminous backdrop for the blossoms and add a bright splash of color to the landscape throughout the growing season. Adorning the top of the plant are slender, spike-like flower clusters that range in shades from a deep, rich red to a softer pink hue. These tiny, densely packed flowers form elongated inflorescences that elegantly arch or nod, adding a soft, feathery texture to the plant's profile. The blossoms are beloved by pollinators and can add a lively buzz to the garden as bees and butterflies are attracted to the nectar-rich blooms. The stems of the mountain fleece are sturdy and upright, often tinged with the same reddish color as the flowers, providing a cohesive look to the plant. The leaves are lance-shaped, and their golden color is especially striking when backlit by the sun, transforming the plant into a glowing focal point within a garden bed or border. Throughout the seasons, the plant maintains its visual interest, with the foliage taking on warmer, sometimes orange or coppery tones as the cooler weather of fall approaches. The overall effect of the Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Golden Arrow' is one of vibrant, enduring color and texture that can complement a variety of garden styles and plant combinations.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Polygonaceae
Synonyms
Bistort, Mountain Fleece, Red Bistort
Common names
Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Golden Arrow'
ToxicityTo humans
There is no widely recognized common name for Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Golden Arrow'; however, plants in the genus Persicaria are generally referred to as smartweeds or knotweeds. Typically, this plant is not known for being toxic to humans. There isn't significant information suggesting that this particular cultivar possesses any toxic qualities. Therefore, ingesting parts of this plant is unlikely to cause poisoning. However, as with any plant material, individual sensitivities or allergic reactions are always possible, and it's advisable to avoid eating plant parts that are not considered edible.
To pets
Similar to the information provided for humans, there is no widely recognized common name for Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Golden Arrow,' but plants in this genus are generally called smartweeds or knotweeds. This plant species is not known for being toxic to pets. There are no well-documented cases of toxicity in animals such as cats and dogs from consuming this plant. Chewing or ingesting the plant should not lead to poisoning, but as with all non-food items, ingestion can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset or other non-toxic related issues, especially if consumed in large quantities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
4
Native area
Himalayas
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal - Adds bright, colorful flowers and foliage to the garden landscape.
- Attracts Wildlife - Draws in pollinators such as bees and butterflies, which are vital for ecosystem health.
- Long Flowering Period - Provides visual interest for an extended period, typically from midsummer to early fall.
- Low Maintenance - Requires minimal care once established, making it suitable for busy gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance - Once established, it can tolerate periods of drought, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Hardiness - Perennial that is relatively hardy in various climates and can survive cold winters in many regions.
- Erosion Control - Can help stabilize the soil in sloped gardens or areas prone to erosion.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Golden Arrow' can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics, the flowers and leaves providing varying shades depending on the mordant used.
- The stems can be incorporated into various crafts, such as basket weaving, to add a splash of color and texture.
- The plant can be used in educational settings as a living example to teach botany and plant identification.
- Leaves of the 'Golden Arrow' can be placed in books or papers as a natural bookmark, preserving the shape of the leaf when pressed.
- When planted in masse, the 'Golden Arrow' can serve as a natural erosion control on sloped landscapes due to its dense growth habit.
- The flowers can provide a natural, biodegradable confetti for weddings or parties when dried and crumbled.
- The plant can be used as a living support structure for lightweight climbing plants or vines, that require minimal support.
- In photography, 'Golden Arrow' can act as a vibrant, seasonal backdrop for outdoor portrait sessions.
- It can serve as a natural indicator plant for gardeners, showing signs of soil moistness or dryness which helps in irrigation management.
- The bright foliage can be used in floral arrangements or table settings to provide a pop of color and a touch of nature indoors.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bistort is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bistort is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Enduring Beauty: Golden Arrow, more commonly known as Bistort or Mountain Fleece, often symbolizes lasting beauty due to its long-lasting flowers and attractive foliage.
- Prosperity and Wealth: The 'Golden' part of its common name may be associated with wealth and prosperity, suggesting an association with financial gain and success.
- Direction and Purpose: The name 'Arrow' can imply direction, purpose, and moving forward towards a goal, representing clarity in life pursuits.
- Healing: Historically, Bistort was used medicinally to aid in healing, thus it carries connotations of healing and soothing.
- Connection with Nature: As a plant that is resilient and adaptable to various conditions, it may signify a deep connection with the natural world and an ability to thrive in different environments.
WaterThe Bistort 'Golden Arrow' prefers consistently moist soil, so water this perennial plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Depending on weather conditions, this could mean watering once or twice a week, providing about one gallon per plant each time during the growing season. In hotter, drier periods, increase watering frequency to ensure soil remains moist. Cut back on watering in the fall as the plant prepares for dormancy and during winter months if the plant is established and the climate is cool or wet.
LightBistort 'Golden Arrow' thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal location is where it can receive morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in regions where the summer sun is very strong. Avoid deep shade as it may hinder flowering and cause the plant to become leggy.
TemperatureBistort 'Golden Arrow' is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, typically enduring minimum temperatures in the region of 0 to -10 degrees Fahrenheit. It prefers moderate temperatures and will thrive best when daytime temperatures are between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive up to maximum temperatures of around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged heat can stress the plant.
PruningPrune Bistort 'Golden Arrow' in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems, which will encourage fresh growth and improve air circulation. Deadheading the spent flowers during the growing season can also promote additional blooming. Cutting the plant back by about a third after the first flush of flowers can help to maintain its shape and may lead to a second bloom period in the fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMountain Fleece 'Golden Arrow' thrives in moist, fertile, well-drained soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and a little sand to improve drainage makes an ideal growing medium for this plant.
RepottingMountain Fleece 'Golden Arrow' typically doesn't require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingMountain Fleece 'Golden Arrow' is adaptable but prefers moderate humidity levels. It does not have specific humidity requirements and can thrive in average garden conditions without the need for additional humidity control.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, moist soil, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, keep soil moist, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
4-7 USDA
Life cyclePersicaria amplexicaulis 'Golden Arrow', commonly known as Bistort or Mountain Fleece, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in spring when the soil warms up. The seedling establishes a root system and shoots emerge, the plant then develops into a clump-forming perennial with characteristic golden-green leaves. During the summer, tall flower spikes with tiny, densely-clustered reddish-pink flowers appear and attract pollinators. After pollination, seeds develop, which then disperse to start the next generation of plants. In autumn, the plant's above-ground foliage dies back with the onset of colder temperatures. Finally, it overwinters as a root system, remaining dormant until the return of favorable conditions in the next spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
The most popular method of propagating Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Golden Arrow', also known as Mountain Fleece, is by division. This is typically done in the spring as new growth appears. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the entire plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, each with a portion of the root system and several shoots. It's important to ensure that each new section has enough roots to sustain the plant. Replant the divisions at the same depth they were growing at originally and water well to establish. This straightforward technique helps to rejuvenate older clumps and also to create new plants for the garden or to share.
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