Persicaria 'Firetail'

Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Firetail': Ember Spikes of Late Summer

A bold and enduring presence in the summer-to-fall garden, Persicaria 'Firetail' is known for its long, slender spikes of deep crimson-red flowers that bloom for months. Rising above a lush, wide mound of deep green foliage, the vivid blooms appear in midsummer and persist well into autumn, swaying with the breeze and drawing in pollinators. Despite its exotic flair, this clump-forming perennial is tough, reliable, and well-behaved—thriving in a variety of soil types and moisture levels without spreading aggressively.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 90–120 cm
• Spread: 75–90 cm
• Flower Colour: Deep crimson-red
• Flowering Period: Midsummer to late fall
• Foliage: Broad, deep green leaves forming a dense, rounded clump
• Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained to average soil; tolerant of heavier soils

Uses and Benefits: 'Firetail' is a standout for naturalistic borders, pollinator plantings, and layered perennial beds where long bloom time and structure are key. It works beautifully as a middle-of-the-border anchor, weaving colour and movement into planting schemes from summer through fall. Noted for its deer resistance and adaptability, it’s a reliable performer in both formal and relaxed garden styles.

Companion Plants: Pair with the burgundy-tinged foliage and upright form of Panicum 'Shenandoah', the golden daisies of Rudbeckia 'Indian Summer', and the soft lavender-blue blooms of Aster 'October Skies' for a richly coloured, wildlife-friendly combination that peaks in late summer and glows into autumn.

Care Instructions: Plant in full sun or part shade with moist to average soil. Water during dry spells, especially in hotter sites. Deadheading is not necessary, but spent blooms can be trimmed for a tidier look. Cut back in late fall or early spring. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour.

History: Brought into wider cultivation from the Himalayas, 'Firetail' has become a garden favourite across Europe and North America thanks to its remarkably long bloom time, adaptable nature, and vibrant colour that lasts well into the fall season.

Final Thoughts: Unfurling a season-long display of glowing red, Persicaria 'Firetail' is a late-season essential—reliable, resilient, and always ready to light up the garden with movement and colour.