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Description
Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara, also known as Alpine Bistort or Viviparous Bistort, is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 30 cm tall. It belongs to the Polygonaceae family and is native to the Arctic and Alpine regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. The plant has long, narrow leaves that are green in color and grow alternately along the stem. Its flowers are pinkish-white and grow in clusters on the stem, blooming from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Bistorta |
| Species | Vivipara |
| Subspecies | Vivipara |
Appearance
Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara has long, narrow leaves that are about 5-15 cm in length and 0.5-1 cm in width. The leaves grow alternately along the stem and are green in color. Its flowers are pinkish-white and grow in clusters on the stem, blooming from June to August. The plant grows up to 30 cm tall and has a rhizomatous root system.
Care Guide
Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant needs regular watering, especially during dry periods, and should be fertilized in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara is hardy in USDA zones 2-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. These can be treated with a fungicide spray. The plant may also be attractive to slugs and snails, which can be controlled with slug bait or by handpicking.
Habitat
Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara is native to the Arctic and Alpine regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. It grows in moist meadows, rocky slopes, and alpine tundra. The plant is well adapted to cold temperatures and harsh conditions, making it a hardy and resilient species.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara a good plant for a rock garden?
A: Yes, Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara is a good plant for a rock garden because it prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Q: Does Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies with its pinkish-white flowers.
Q: How often should I water Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara?
A: Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara needs regular watering, especially during dry periods. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in the spring in moist, well-draining soil and keep them moist until they germinate.
Related Plants
- Bistorta amplexicaulis
- Bistorta bistortoides
- Bistorta officinalis
References
- USDA Plants Profile: Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara
- Gardeners’ World: Bistorta Vivipara Subsp. Vivipara
