Pennsylvania smartweed- Polygonum pensylvanicum

Pennsylvania Smartweed is classified as a native annual herb and is a species of flowering plant in the buckwheat family, Polygonaceae. It is widespread in the United States and Canada and has been introduced in parts of South America and Europe. It is underrated because it is widespread, and some see the flowers as unattractive and small.

Although the plant becomes crowded with tiny buds and flowers about 1/8 of an inch in width, the petite flowers do not open up widely even in full bloom and have no noticeable floral scent. However, the criticism is not genuine as the colors vary from white to light pink to bright pink, and the latter is a vibrant and attractive flower.

The plant is common on freshwater mudflats, river banks, the margins of lakes, ponds, marshes, reservoirs, ditches, irrigated fields, and other moist areas. The seed is broadcast in mudflats or on wet ground in the spring after the last killing frost. It might also be seeded later to ensure that the seed maturity coincides with the arrival of migratory birds.

Pennsylvania smartweeds shiny black seeds are usually broadcast at a rate of 10 to 15 pounds per acre

The nectar attracts many insects, including small butterflies, long and short-tongued bees, and moths. The plant has been called a “duck magnet” since it is an excellent food for waterfowl such as ducks, doves, geese, and other game and even non-game species.

Also, the dense foliage gives excellent cover for marsh birds, immature waterfowl, and wintering pheasants. It grows between one and four feet tall and is an erect plant, although it does bend towards the light when in a partially shaded area.

Its smooth, round stems vary from light green to a faint red. The green to dark green leaves might grow seven inches in length and three inches in width.

Buy Pennsylvania Smartweed online at TN Nursery