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Sawatch Knotweed

Polygonum sawatchense

Last reviewed: August 2026

Sawatch Knotweed (Polygonum sawatchense)
Photo: (c) Martin Purdy, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Martin Purdy

Toxicity unknown

Sawatch Knotweed (Polygonum sawatchense) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

6"–12" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 10 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

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Sawatch knotweed is a compact native perennial that forms low mounds of small leaves with clusters of tiny white or pink flowers from summer into fall. This alpine species stays neat and tidy, making it suitable for rock gardens or as a groundcover in partially sunny areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Sawatch Knotweed is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract bees and beetles during the late summer blooming period. As a native wildflower, it provides habitat value for local pollinators.

Common questions

How much sun does Sawatch Knotweed need?
Sawatch Knotweed grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Sawatch Knotweed bloom?
Sawatch Knotweed blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Sawatch Knotweed native?
Sawatch Knotweed (Polygonum sawatchense) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 10 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Sawatch Knotweed attract?
Sawatch Knotweed draws bees and beetles.
Is Sawatch Knotweed HOA-friendly?
Sawatch Knotweed is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Sawatch 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