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What is this ground cover? #864817

Asked April 16, 2024, 10:14 PM EDT

It’s very small (“quarter” included in image for scale) and low growing, almost like a moss. Does well even in the dry summers. Soft to the touch. I love it and want to grow more of it! Roots grow down only about 1/2 inch.

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thanks for your question.

If my identification is correct, this is a plant that I don’t think you want in your garden. It can be highly invasive. I believe this is Prostrate Knotweed (Polygonum aviculare). Be careful about what you are wishing for.  Here is some information about it, including control methods:

https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/weed/broadleaf/creeping/pknotweed.html

https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/weed/idlist.html - PKnotweed

https://www.turfcaresupply.com/prostrate-knotweed - :~:text=Found in all 50 states,soil if not properly managed.

http://www.minnesotaseasons.com/Plants/prostrate_knotweed.html

https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/news/columns/dakota-gardener/dakota-gardener-in-knots-about-prostrate-knotweed

From my own personal experience, avoid this plant. It could take control of your garden.

Good luck. Thanks for consulting us.


An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 17, 2024, 1:02 PM EDT

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