Persicaria microcephala ‘Purple Fantasy’

Smartweed

Persicaria ‘Purple Fantasy’ is a captivating hardy perennial with striking purple and silver variegated foliage. Thriving in moist, well-drained soil and partial to full sun, it is perfect for borders, ground cover, or containers

Pest-resistant, its vibrant foliage adds colour to any garden, appealing to both novice and seasoned gardeners for its visual interest and low maintenance.

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Origin: Species native to the Himalayas, and central and southern China, cultivar of botanical origin
Genus: Persicaria
Species / Cultivar: microcephala 'Purple Fantasy'
Common Name: Smartweed
Synonym: Persicaria runcinata 'Purple Fantasy', Persicaria microcephala 'Purple Fantasy'

Plant Biography

Persicaria ‘Purple Fantasy’ is a cultivated variety of the genus Persicaria, which belongs to the Polygonaceae family. The genus Persicaria includes species commonly known as smartweeds, and they are found in temperate regions around the world. Persicaria ‘Purple Fantasy’ is notable for its striking foliage with purple and silver variegation, developed through selective breeding to enhance ornamental appeal.

This cultivar thrives in moist, well-drained soils and is often used in garden landscapes for its attractive foliage and low-maintenance requirements. The history of Persicaria cultivation highlights its transformation from wild species to desirable garden plants through horticultural innovation.

Persicaria microcephala ‘Purple Fantasy’
Soil: Moist but Well Drained
Soil that allows water to drain at a moderate rate, without the water pooling.
Growth Rate: Fast
Expect to see prolific growth, especially during growing season.
Maintenance: Low
Minimal skill or input needed beyond the basics, a very independent plant.
Situation: Full Sun to Part Shade
Enjoys direct sun most of the day, but tolerant of fewer sunlit hours or light dappling.
Eventual Height: 0.5-1m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 1-1.5m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Fully Hardy
Will survive unprotected outdoors in most areas of the UK, even in the harshest winters.
Habit: Deciduous
Sheds all its foliage annually, so for a period of the year it will be without foliage.
Lifecycle: Perennial
This plant is persistant and does not die off after flowering. It will return each season indefinitely, if provided with suitable growing conditions.
Care & Size Guidance

Care & Size Guidance

Persicaria ‘Purple Fantasy’ is a hardy perennial renowned for its striking purple and silver variegated foliage. This low-maintenance plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil and flourishes in partial to full sun. Typically reaching a height of 0.5-1 metre and spreading about 1-1.5 metres, it is ideal for borders, ground cover, or container planting. Regular watering is essential, particularly during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging.

Prune back in late winter to early spring to encourage fresh growth. Persicaria ‘Purple Fantasy’ is generally pest-resistant and adds a vibrant, unique touch to any garden with its colourful and distinctive foliage.

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