Connecticut Plants
Water Smartweed
Persicaria amphibia (L.) S.F. Gray

Water smartweed is a rather variable plant that can grow in water or on shores. The two forms differ noticeably, both in overall habit of the plant and in the shape of the leaves.

  • Synonyms: Polygonum amphibium L.
  • Family: buckwheat (Polygonaceae)
  • Habitat: ponds, ditches, wet soil
  • Height: 4-30 inches
  • Flower size: 1/8 inch across
  • Flower color: pink
  • Flowering time: July to August
  • Origin: native
Polygonum amphibium L.
Polygonum amphibium L.

This is the floating form of water smartweed.

Polygonum amphibium L.

This is the terrestrial form.