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Broadleaf Knotweed

Polygonum minimum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Broadleaf Knotweed (Polygonum minimum)
Photo: (c) Alison Northup, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Alison Northup

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

2"–8" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

CA, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Broadleaf knotweed is a low-growing annual that forms small mats with tiny leaves and inconspicuous flowers. This diminutive native plant thrives in sunny, dry conditions and completes its entire life cycle in one growing season.

In an HOA neighborhood

Broadleaf Knotweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Extremely weedy appearance
  • Dies back completely as annual
  • Too informal for maintained landscapes

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract bees and beetles during the summer months. Seeds may provide food for small birds and ground-dwelling wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Broadleaf Knotweed need?
Broadleaf Knotweed grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Broadleaf Knotweed bloom?
Broadleaf Knotweed blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Broadleaf Knotweed native?
Broadleaf Knotweed (Polygonum minimum) is native to CA, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Broadleaf Knotweed attract?
Broadleaf Knotweed draws bees and beetles.
Is Broadleaf Knotweed HOA-friendly?
Broadleaf Knotweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Broadleaf Knotweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz