Water
Water consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during active growth. Reduce watering in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Also known as Asian Tearthumb · Asiatic Tearthumb · Devil's Tear-Thumb
Mile-A-Minute Weed (Persicaria perfoliata) is a fast-growing invasive annual vine that forms dense mats, smothering native vegetation and trees with triangular leaves and
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in a variety of light conditions, but prefers full sun for best growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during dormant periods.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures for active growth, typically between 15-25°C.
Low
25% intensity
Generally requires no fertilization; thrives in nutrient-rich soils.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings, especially during active growth. Reduce watering in cooler months to prevent root rot.
Pruning is primarily for containment and removal, not shaping. Cut back any overgrown stems to prevent its spread. Remove entire plants from the root when managing infestations, especially before seed set.
Primarily propagates by seed, which are abundant and viable. Seeds germinate readily in moist soil. Can also spread vegetatively through stem fragments that root readily when in contact with soil.
Not applicable as this is an invasive weed typically found in the wild or garden beds. If attempting to cultivate it for study, use a large container with well-draining soil and be mindful of its aggressive growth habits.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mile-A-Minute Weed (Persicaria perfoliata)
Where Mile-A-Minute Weed (Persicaria perfoliata) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Persicaria |
| Species | Persicaria perfoliata |
Similar in genus Persicaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data