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BogsHerbaceous Perennial

Bistorta amplexicaulis
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

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

Synonyms
Polygonum amplexicaule
Persicaria amplexicaulis oxyphylla
see morePersicaria amplexicaulis
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
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
H7
Botanical 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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