Bistorta bistortoides
(American Bistort)
Bistorta bistortoides, Loveland Pass, Clear Creek Co. 1896
Bistorta bistortoides, Crystal Lakes, Summit Co. 1210
Bistorta bistortoides, Blue Lakes, Summit Co. 4635
Bistorta bistortoides, Miner's Creek, Summit Co. 5981
Bistorta bistortoides, Crystal Lakes, Summit Co. 1208
Bistorta bistortoides, Lake Emma, Park Co. 1383
| Scientific Name | Bistorta bistortoides (Polygonum bistortoides) | USDA PLANTS Symbol | POBI6 |
| Common Name | American Bistort | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 509552 |
| Family | Polygonaceae (Buckwheat) | SEINet Reference |
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| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Foothills to alpine (7000 to 14000 ft); meadows, streamsides, wetlands, tundra. Plant: Erect perennial 8 to 30 inches tall, 1 to 3 stems. Leaves: Mostly basal, dark green, long, narrowly lanceolate or oblong-lanceolate with pronounced center vein, often wavy edges; a few similar but shorter stem leaves widely spaced; surfaces mostly smooth upper or hairy beneath. Inflorescence: Dense cluster of many small white or pinkish flowers 3/16-inch long with 5 tepals, in a short, compact raceme; bulblets absent. Bloom Period: June to September. Reference: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, "A Field Guide to Wildflowers of the Rocky Mountains" by Carl Schreier and "Guide to Colorado Wildflowers" by G.K. Guennel. |
BONAP Distribution Map Map Color Key |
Colorado Status: Native |
© Tom Lebsack 2024
Banner photo: Castilleja rhexifolia and a brewing storm over the San Juan Mountains