Bistorta officinalis

RHS Plant Profile
common bistort

Other common names

dragonwort, Easter giant, Easter ledges, Easter magiant, Easter man-giant, gentle dock, great bistort, osterick, oysterloit, passion dock, patience dock, patient dock, red legs, twice-writhen, adderwort, snakeweed, bistort

Synonyms

Persicaria bistorta
Polygonum bistorta
Bistorta major

Herbaceous Perennial

A vigorous rhizomatous, semi-evergreen perennial to 75cm tall, with prominently veined, ovate mid-green leaves to 30cm long, and short, dense cylindrical spikes of small pale pink or white flowers in summer and early autumn

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Poorly–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Polygonaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
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
Europe, N & W Asia

How to Grow

Cultivation

Ideal for any moist soil in sun or shade, although it is tolerant of dry soils

Propagation

Propagate by division in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Wildlife gardens

Pruning

Deadhead faded spikes

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free