Also known as Alpine Knotweed · Serpent-Grass · Viviparous Bistort
Alpine Bistort (Bistorta vivipara) is a low-growing perennial herb native to arctic and alpine regions, featuring spikes of pink flowers and bulbils.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Well-drained, sandy, loamy
50% intensity
Cold Hardy
25% intensity
Thrives in cooler climates and is very frost-tolerant.
Light Feeding
25% intensity
Generally requires minimal fertilizer; a light feed in spring is ample.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Alpine Bistort prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its active growing season. Water regularly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogging, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering in autumn as the plant enters dormancy.
Minimal pruning is required for Bistorta vivipara. After flowering, remove spent flower stalks to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent self-seeding if not desired.
In late autumn or early spring, cut back any dead or damaged foliage to the ground.
Bistorta vivipara can be propagated by division in early spring or autumn. Carefully dig up established clumps and separate them into smaller sections, ensuring each division has roots and shoots.
It can also be grown from seed, though germination may be erratic.
Repotting is generally only necessary for container-grown plants or if the plant becomes overcrowded. Do this in early spring before new growth begins.
Choose a pot with good drainage and fresh, well-draining potting mix. Divide and repot as needed to refresh the soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Alpine Bistort (Bistorta vivipara)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Bistorta |
| Species | Bistorta vivipara |
Similar in genus Bistorta
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
