About

Bistorta amplexicaulis 'Red Baron' is a compact, deciduous perennial that grows to about 85 cm in height. It features broad, ovate green leaves and produces numerous stout, upright spikes adorned with deep red buds that unfurl into red blossoms from summer into autumn. This plant is well-suited for smaller gardens and can be effectively placed at the front of flower borders.

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
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free