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Description
Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis, also known as Bistort or Polygonum Bistorta, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Polygonaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and can grow up to 60cm in height. The plant has a rhizomatous root system and produces spikes of pink flowers in the summer. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 15cm in length. Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Bistorta |
| Species | Bistorta Officinalis |
| Subspecies | Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis |
Appearance
Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis has lance-shaped leaves that grow up to 15cm in length. The leaves are green and have a smooth texture. The plant produces spikes of pink flowers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are arranged in a raceme and can grow up to 15cm in length. The root system of Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis is rhizomatous and can spread quickly, making it an effective ground cover.
Care Guide
Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun but may require more frequent watering in hot, dry conditions. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth, but it is not necessary. Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis is hardy and can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged. Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis may also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in damp meadows, marshes, and woodland areas. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. The plant is tolerant of cold temperatures and can survive in harsh climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and roots of Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis can be eaten, but they have a bitter taste and are not commonly used as a food source.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis?
A: Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis has astringent and anti-inflammatory properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and hemorrhoids.
Q: Can Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis be grown indoors?
A: Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis is not typically grown indoors as it prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. It is best suited for outdoor cultivation.
Q: How can I propagate Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis?
A: Bistorta Officinalis Subsp. Officinalis can be propagated by division. Divide the rhizomes in the spring or fall and plant them in moist, well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Bistorta major
- Bistorta vivipara
- Bistorta affinis
- Persicaria bistorta
References
- “Bistorta officinalis subsp. officinalis (Polygonum bistorta) – Plants For A Future.” Plants For A Future, 2021, https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Bistorta+officinalis+subsp.+officinalis. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.
- “Polygonum bistorta – L.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, 2021, https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:695111-1. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.
- “Bistorta Officinalis – Subsp. Officinalis.” The Royal Horticultural Society, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/10288/bistorta-officinalis-subsp-officinalis/details. Accessed 29 Nov. 2021.
