How much sun does Pleatleaf Knotweed need?

Pleatleaf Knotweed grows best in part sun conditions.

When does Pleatleaf Knotweed bloom?

Pleatleaf Knotweed blooms in July, August, and September.

Where is Pleatleaf Knotweed native?

Pleatleaf Knotweed (Polygonum tenue) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Pleatleaf Knotweed attract?

Pleatleaf Knotweed draws bees and beetles.

Is Pleatleaf Knotweed HOA-friendly?

Pleatleaf Knotweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Pleatleaf Knotweed

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Polygonum tenue

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

4"–16" H × 2"–8" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains Texas Blackland Prairies East Central Texas Plains South Central Plains

Pleatleaf knotweed is a small annual wildflower that grows in low, spreading clumps. It produces tiny white or pinkish flowers from July through September and thrives in partial sun with moderate moisture. This delicate plant typically reaches only 4 to 16 inches tall with a modest spread.

In an HOA neighborhood

Pleatleaf 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 small and inconspicuous appearance
Annual nature means gaps in coverage
Can appear weedy or unkempt

Wildlife value

The summer blooms provide nectar for native bees and beetles during the mid to late growing season. As a native annual, it also contributes to the local ecosystem's plant diversity.

Common questions

How much sun does Pleatleaf Knotweed need?: Pleatleaf Knotweed grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Pleatleaf Knotweed bloom?: Pleatleaf Knotweed blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Pleatleaf Knotweed native?: Pleatleaf Knotweed (Polygonum tenue) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 30 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Pleatleaf Knotweed attract?: Pleatleaf Knotweed draws bees and beetles.
Is Pleatleaf Knotweed HOA-friendly?: Pleatleaf 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 Pleatleaf Knotweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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