Joint Weed (Polygonum barbatum)

At a glance

Lifecycle: Perennial (hardy)
Exposure: Full sun

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it is hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it could succeed outdoors at least in the milder parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in an ordinary garden soil. Plants seem to be immune to the predations of rabbits.

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a cold frame. Germination is usually free and easy. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer if they have reached sufficient size. If not, overwinter them in a cold frame and plant them out the following spring after the last expected frosts. Division in spring or autumn. Very easy, larger divisions can be planted out direct into their permanent positions. We have found that it is better to pot up the smaller divisions and grow them on in light shade in a cold frame until they are well established before planting them out in late spring or early summer.

Edible uses

Tender young leaves and shoots - cooked as a vegetable.

Medicinal uses

The seeds are used to relieve the griping pains of colic. The root is astringent and cooling.

Habitat

Depressions in shaded situations, 1700 - 1900 metres in the western Himalayas. Streamsides, wet areas and the sides of water from sea level to 1300 metres in wesern and southern China.

Native range

E. Asia - Himalayas to western and southern China