Overview
Bistorta bistortoides, commonly known as mountain bistort, is a perennial plant of the family Polygonaceae. It is native to western North America including Alaska, British Columbia, and the western United States. It is a hardy plant that thrives in a wide range of conditions, from moist meadows to high alpine areas.
General Appearance
The mountain bistort typically grows up to a height of 1-2 feet. It has a long stem with numerous leaves and small, pink or white flowers clustered on short stems at the top. The leaves are green and lance-shaped with prominent veins. The plant's root system is a rhizome, which can spread and result in large colonies of the plant.
Common Names
Bistorta bistortoides has several common names, including mountain bistort, Western bistort, American bistort, and smokeweed. The name bistort comes from the Latin words bis (twice) and torta (twisted), referring to the twisted appearance of the roots.
Uses
Indigenous people in western North America have long used the mountain bistort for medicinal purposes, such as treating stomach ailments, skin conditions, and respiratory problems. The plant's rhizomes were also roasted and eaten by indigenous people. The mountain bistort has been used for soil erosion control and as a food source for grazing animals such as deer and elk. The plant's flowers are also a source of nectar for bees and other insects.
Light Requirements
Bistorta bistortoides, commonly known as mountain bistort, typically grows in full sun to part shade. It can tolerate some shade, but prolonged lack of sunlight may cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Temperature Requirements
Bistorta bistortoides is a hardy perennial that can withstand temperatures ranging from -40°F to 70°F (-40°C to 21°C). However, the optimal temperature range for its growth is between 60°F and 75°F (16°C and 24°C). If the temperature gets too high, the plant may go into dormancy to conserve energy.
Soil Requirements
Bistorta bistortoides is adaptable to a wide range of soils but thrives in moist, well-drained soils. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can also tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. Good soil drainage is essential to the plant's survival as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation methods for Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small
When cultivating Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small, it is crucial to select an appropriate location that receives partial to full sunlight, depending on your climate and latitude. This perennial herbaceous plant prefers slightly acidic, well-draining soil that must be enriched with organic matter before planting. The ideal time to plant bistortoides is in early spring when the soil has thawed, and the threat of frost has passed.
Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small can propagate through seeds or divide the root ball. If you are propagating by seeds, it is essential to start the seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost in your area. Then, harden off the seedlings before transplanting them outdoors. Alternatively, if you are dividing the root ball, do it in early spring, preferably every two to three years, to promote strong growth and prevent over-crowding.
Watering needs for Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small
Watering needs for Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small are moderate. This herbaceous plant prefers moist soil, but it can withstand drought once established. If you're planting in a dry climate, it's crucial to ensure that the soil retains moisture and that the plant is adequately hydrated. However, avoid overwatering the plant as it's susceptible to root rot.
The soil should be well-draining to prevent the accumulation of water in the roots. To maintain optimal soil moisture, watering can be done once a week, depending on weather conditions.
Fertilization for Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small
Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small is a light feeder; therefore, fertilizer application should be sparing. Using too much fertilizer can result in tall and floppy stems, which will require staking. Fertilize in the early spring using a balanced slow-release fertilizer that is low in nitrogen but high in potassium and phosphorus. Avoid fertilizing in the fall, as it can promote new growth that will not have time to harden off before the winter season.
Pruning for Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small
Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small requires minimal pruning; therefore, it is not necessary to perform regular pruning. However, to maintain its shape and height, a light trimming back of up to one-third of the plant's height can be done in the early spring before new growth begins. Deadheading (the removal of faded flowers) can be carried out in late summer or early fall to promote more blooms the following year.
It's essential to remove any dead or diseased stems and foliage promptly to prevent the spread of disease and to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small
Bistorta bistortoides (Pursh) Small is a beautiful perennial plant that produces pink to white flowers. If you want to propagate it, here are the methods you can use:
Seed Propagation
You can grow Bistorta bistortoides from seed. In the wild, the plant produces seeds naturally that you can collect and sow. Ensure that you sow the seeds immediately, as they'll quickly lose their viability. You can also buy seeds from garden stores or online sites. Before planting, the seeds may need treatment to break their dormancy. Scarification or stratification can break the plant's dormancy, which means the seed will germinate.
Division
You can propagate Bistorta bistortoides through division. Divide the plant either in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. Dig the plant up, and cut the roots into smaller pieces. Each division should have at least one growing point or eye. Replant each section into the ground in a new location.
Stem Cuttings
You can also propagate Bistorta bistortoides from stem cuttings. Cut a 4-6 inch stem, preferably from the plant's upper part, and remove the leaves from the bottom inch. Submerge the bottom part of the cutting in a rooting hormone solution to stimulate root growth. Stick the cuttings into soil, and keep it moist and in a bright, indirect location. Once they develop roots, transplant them to a permanent location.
Propagation of Bistorta bistortoides is not difficult, and it can be done through seed propagation, division, or stem cuttings. Regardless of the propagation method you choose, be patient and give it adequate care until it establishes successfully in its new location.
Disease Management
Bistorta bistortoides is vulnerable to various fungal and bacterial diseases. Here are some common diseases that might attack the plant:
Leaf spot:
A fungal infection that causes yellow spots on the leaves. The spots will turn brown and have dark borders, eventually causing the leaves to die. To manage this disease, remove the infected part of the plant and spray the remaining plant with a preventative fungicide. Make sure to water the plant from below to prevent the spread of fungal spores.
Root rot:
Root rot is caused by a soil-borne fungal pathogen. The disease can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die if left untreated. To reduce the risk of root rot, ensure the plant is not over-watered and has adequate drainage. Remove infected plants immediately and destroy them to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Bistorta bistortoides is susceptible to various pests that can cause significant damage. Here are some common pests that might attack the plant, and ways to manage them:
Cutworms:
Cutworms are a common pest during the larval stage. They feed on the plant's leaves and stems, causing significant damage. To manage cutworms, handpick them off the plant or use a biological insecticide.
Aphids:
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and wither. They can also transmit viruses and disease. To manage aphids, use a high-pressure water spray to knock them off the plant or use insecticidal soap or oil.
Spider mites:
Spider mites are tiny pests that can completely defoliate a plant if left untreated. They feed on the underside of the leaves and spin webs. To manage spider mites, use an insecticidal soap or oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
