When Persicaria bistorta, more commonly known as bistort, first begins to bloom in early summer, bees are some of the first insects to take notice. The nectar-rich flowers serve as an important food source for these hardworking pollinators, providing them with the energy they need to continue foraging and collecting pollen. In turn, the bees help to pollinate the bistort flowers, ensuring that they can produce seeds and reproduce. This symbiotic relationship is just one example of the many ways in which bees and other pollinators play a vital role in our ecosystem.
Bees are attracted to the Persicaria bistorta, or bistort plant, for its nectar and pollen. This perennial herb is native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced to North America. It has dark green leaves and produces pink or red flowers from July to October.
What Is Bistort
The Persicaria bistorta is a member of the Polygonaceae family, which also includes other flowering plants such as buckwheat and knotweed. This family is distinguished by its flowers, which have both male and female reproductive organs (stamens and pistils). The Persicaria bistorta plant is hermaphroditic, meaning that each flower contains both stamens and pistils.
Growing Bistort
The ideal time to plant bistort, in the United Kingdom is from May until early autumn. This will give the plant plenty of time to establish itself before the cold winter months set in. Bistort is a hardy plant and can tolerate frost, but it does best in moist soils and will grow well around a pond or bog garden. It prefers full sun or partial shade and can reach a height of up to one metre.
Once Persicaria bistorta, or bistort, is established, it is relatively easy to care for. It will spread readily by rhizomes, so it may need to be divided every few years to prevent it from becoming too congested. This can be done in spring or autumn. To divide bistort, lift the plant and carefully divide the rootball into smaller sections using a sharp knife. Replant each section in a prepared bed and water well.
Best Bistort Varieties For Bees
Persicaria bistorta ‘Superba’ (common bistort) – is a popular choice for bees and other pollinators. It has dense spikes of soft pink flowers that attract plenty of insects to its nectar sources, making it an ideal plant for the wildlife-friendly garden. The semi-evergreen foliage provides cover and exploration opportunities for bees and other beneficial creatures. Plant Persicaria Bistorta Superba in well-drained soil with plenty of space, especially if you are looking to create bold swathes of colour throughout summer into early autumn. It will tolerate sun or partial shade but will thrive in areas that remain slightly moist – this could be around a pond or bog gardens, where extra moisture can provide relief from dry conditions.
Bistorta amplexicaulis ‘Firetail’ (red bistort) – is another great option for attracting bees and other pollinators. This variety features bright red flowers on slender stems that are borne in clusters over a long period, making it a great choice for adding vertical interest to the garden right through till mid autumn. Its semi-evergreen leaves provide food, cover and exploration opportunities for bees, while its vibrant colour makes it an eye-catching addition to any space. Plant Bistorta amplexicaulis ‘Firetail’ in moist soil with plenty of room to spread – this will help ensure that it performs at its best throughout the summer months.
Where To Buy Bistort
Add some elegance and vibrancy to your garden this season with the beautiful Bistort plant. This stunning perennial is perfect for ground cover or adding vertical interest to your border. Best of all, it creates a haven for bees and other pollinators, making it ideal for any bee-friendly garden. If you want to get your hands on one of these fabulous plants, then look no further than Crocus.co.uk – the online home of high-quality gardening supplies! With an unbeatable range and a helpful customer service team on hand every step of the way, you can be sure that you’re getting exactly what you need. So don’t wait any longer – buy your Bistort today from Crocus.co.uk and help make your garden a true paradise!
If you’re looking to attract bees and other insects to your garden, Persicaria bistorta, or bistort, is a great plant to add. Bistort is also relatively easy to care for, making it a great option for gardeners of all levels. So why not add some bistort plants to your garden and do your part in supporting our important pollinators?
You can unsubscribe at any time.