Bistorta amplexicaulis
red bistort
A robust, clump-forming, semi-evergreen perennial with pointed, slightly puckered, oval, mid-green leaves, to 25cm long. Long-stalked narrow spikes, to 10cm long, of narrowly bell-shaped, bright-red to purple or white flowers, are borne from midsummer to early autumn. To 1.2m high and wide
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | Red | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
North–facing or West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous or Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Potentially harmful
- Contact with all parts may irritate skin, the sap may cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Genus
A genus of herbaceous, rhizomatous perennials with erect, unbranched stems, bearing short terminal spikes of small, white or pink, bell-shaped flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Himalaya
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any moist soil in full sun or partial shade. Substantial mounds of foliage steadily increase in size, needing space and careful siting
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or autumn or propagate by seed in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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