Dwarf Japanese knotweed

(Fallopia japonica var. Compacta)

Also known as Polygonum Reynoutria, Polygonum compactum and Polygonum pictum, ‘Compacta’ is a dwarf form of Japanese knotweed. It reaches only 1m-1.8m (40 inches) in height, and emerges later than standard japonica (usually late spring). It retains the distinctive ‘zig zag’ petiole structure, but the leaves are darker green, more variable in shape, up to 11cm (4 inches) long and up to 10cm (3.5 inches) wide. Leaves have crinkled edges, a leathery texture, reddish veins and are often curled into a concave form. Upright clusters of white or pale pink flowers appear in late summer, which often mature to dark pink or red. Both male and female plants occur in Europe and the UK, though ‘Compacta’ is rare in countries like Germany and the Czech Republic. Dwarf Japanese knotweed is still available to purchase from some nurseries in the US, where it is promoted for its ground cover properties or as a potted plant. Although smaller and less invasive than Japanese knotweed, Dwarf knotweed still retains some of the voracious growing habit of the species. It seems some lessons are slow to learn.

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