About
Bistorta officinalis is a robust perennial that grows through rhizomes, reaching heights of up to 75 cm. Its leaves are ovate, medium green, and can measure up to 30 cm in length, featuring distinct vein patterns. During summer and early autumn, it produces compact spikes filled with small flowers, which can be pale pink or white in color.
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, Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
- Native to
- Europe, N & W Asia
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Ideal for any moist soil in sun or shade, although it is tolerant of dry soils
- Pruning
- Deadhead faded spikes
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in spring or autumn
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free