Water pepper, Marshpepper knotweed, Smartweed, Pepperwort
Polygonum hydropiper
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Water pepper has some limited permaculture uses. The leaves are edible when young, possessing a peppery flavor, and can be used as a spice. It has some medicinal properties as a hemostatic and antiseptic. However, due to its potential toxicity and strong flavor, its use is not widespread. It can be used as a green manure or ground cover in very wet areas, but care must be taken to prevent it from becoming invasive.
Permapeople description
An annual plant with a peppery taste. Often found in wet areas.
Botanical description
Polygonum hydropiper is an annual herb belonging to the Polygonaceae family. It typically grows to a height of 10-70 cm. The stems are erect or ascending, often reddish, and branched. Leaves are lanceolate to narrowly elliptic, alternate, and up to 10 cm long, with a peppery taste. Flowers are small, greenish-white to pinkish, arranged in slender, drooping spikes. The fruit is a small, dark brown achene. It thrives in damp habitats, such as marshes, ditches, and stream banks.
Companion planting
Due to its potential to become invasive and its allelopathic properties, it is generally not recommended for companion planting. It may inhibit the growth of other plants nearby.
Propagation methods
Water pepper is primarily propagated by seed. Seeds can be sown directly in moist soil in spring or fall. It self-seeds readily, making it potentially invasive. Cuttings are also possible, although less common.
History and traditions
Water pepper has a history of use in traditional medicine as a hemostatic agent and for treating wounds. In some cultures, it was also used as a spice, particularly in sauces and pickles. Historical records indicate its use in treating gastrointestinal issues. It has also been used as a dye plant, producing a yellow or green color.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs from June to October. Harvesting of young leaves can be done throughout the growing season. Seed collection is in late summer or early fall. Planting is best in spring or fall.