About

Bistorta 'Pink Elephant' is a compact, semi-evergreen perennial that typically reaches a height of 65 cm. It features slender, leathery leaves of a deep green hue. From mid-summer into autumn, elongated spikes adorned with small, bell-shaped pink flowers emerge, elegantly arching above the foliage. Despite its vigorous growth, this variety of Persicaria remains manageable and does not become invasive. It thrives in containers placed in lightly shaded, cool areas, making it a good choice for smaller gardens or for positioning 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
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

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

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moist soil in sun or part-shade See for further information about RHS plant trials and awards
Pruning
No pruning required. Cut back in autumn
Propagation
Propagate by division in spring or autumn
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free