About
Bistorta amplexicaulis is a sturdy, clump-forming perennial that exhibits semi-evergreen characteristics. Its pointed, slightly crinkled leaves are oval-shaped and can reach lengths of up to 25 cm. From midsummer through early autumn, this plant produces long-stalked spikes that can grow to 10 cm, featuring slender, bell-shaped flowers that range in color from bright red to purple or white. The overall height and spread of this species can reach 1.2 m.
About the genus
This genus consists of herbaceous perennials that grow from rhizomes, featuring upright, unbranched stems. At the top of these stems are short spikes adorned with small, bell-shaped flowers that can be white or pink in color.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Bogs, Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous, Semi evergreen
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 1-1.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Himalaya
- Toxicity
- Contact with all parts may irritate skin, the sap may cause mild stomach upset if ingested. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
- 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
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring or autumn or propagate by seed in spring
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free