How to Grow Oriental Persicaria
Persicaria orientalis
Kiss Me Over the Garden Gate is a towering hardy annual reaching 1.5–2m, bearing long drooping spikes of deep rose-pink flowers from midsummer through to the first frosts. Sow direct in May after the last frost, or start under cover in March–April and plant out when frosts have passed. Give it a sunny, sheltered spot and moderately fertile moist soil. It self-seeds vigorously once established — one season planting often leads to a permanent colony.
When to Start
Direct sow outdoors as soon as soil reaches 10°C — typically early to mid spring. Can also be started indoors 6 weeks earlier for a head start.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- No regular feeding needed — thrives in moderately fertile soil. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds which produce lush foliage at the expense of flowers.
- One of the tallest and most dramatic hardy annuals you can grow. Plant at the back of borders where the towering stems and drooping flower spikes create a bold late-summer statement. Self-seeds freely once established — allow a few plants to set seed for a self-perpetuating colony, or deadhead strictly to keep it contained.
Growing Conditions
- Min. soil temperature
- 10°C+
- Germination temperature
- 15–22°C
- Sow indoors
- —
- Transplant out
- —
- First harvest
- —
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 60 cm |
| Row spacing | 75 cm |
| Sow depth | 0.5 cm |
| Mature height | 180 cm |
| Mature spread | 70 cm |
Space 50–75 cm apart. Plants grow very tall — allow room for their impressive spread and avoid shading shorter neighbours.
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 10°C |
| Germination temperature | 15–22°C |
| Base growth temperature | 8°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | day neutral |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Oriental Persicaria?
- Plant Oriental Persicaria 60cm apart with 75cm between rows.
- When does Oriental Persicaria flower?
- Oriental Persicaria typically flowers approximately 70 days after transplanting.
- Is Oriental Persicaria frost hardy?
- Oriental Persicaria is classified as Hardy.
