Persicaria amplexicaulis Bistort (Persicaria amplexicaulis 'Firetail') per-sih-KAR-ee-ah am-pleks-ih-KAWL-is Synonyms:  Bistorta amplexicaulis 'Firetail' Genus:  Persicaria This vigorous but noninvasive perennial flowers from early summer into autumn with crimson blossoms to 6 inches long. Its leaves are dark green, arrow-shaped, and slightly puckered. It grows to 4 feet high and wide. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Persicaria are rhizomatous or stoloniferous plants that are spreading and sometimes invasive. They have fleshy stems and conspicuously veined leaves, some of which exhibit autumn color. Many are suitable in a mixed container or border, others naturalized in a woodland or meadow. All plant parts may cause skin irritation on contact and stomach upset if ingested.  Care:  Grow in moist soil in full sun to partial shade. Propagation:  Divide plants in spring or fall. Sow seed in spring in a cold frame. Problems:  Aphids, Japanese beetles, slugs, snails.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Habit Spreads Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Attracts Song Birds, Attracts Butterflies, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Summer Flower Color Pink, Red Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower, Dried Flower, Ground Covers, Naturalizing, Waterside Style Cottage Garden, Meadow Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Tolerance Frost Tolerant Type Perennials