Bistorta vivipara
(Alpine Bistort)
Bistorta vivipara, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 3978
Bistorta vivipara, Mayflower Gulch, Summit Co. 6810
Bistorta vivipara, Loveland Pass, Clear Creek Co. 6840
Bistorta vivipara, Mayflower Gulch, Summit Co. 8293
Bistorta vivipara, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 3964
Bistorta vivipara, Hoosier Pass, Summit Co. 3967
Bistorta vivipara, Mayflower Gulch, Summit Co. 6813
| Scientific Name | Bistorta vivipara (Polygonum viviparum) | USDA PLANTS Symbol | POVI3 |
| Common Name | Alpine Bistort | ITIS Taxonomic Serial No. | 823849 |
| Family | Polygonaceae (Buckwheat) | Flora of North America Ref. | Click Here |
| Description |
Life zones and habitat: Montane to alpine (8500 to 14000 ft); exposed areas, moist meadows, streamsides, tundra. Plant: Erect, slender perennial 3 to 14 inches tall. Leaves: Mostly basal, with 2 to 4 alternate stem leaves; smooth surfaces and edges often rolled downward; basal leaves 1 to 3 inches long, linear to lanceolate or narrowly ovate; smaller stem leaves. Inflorescence: Several small white to pinkish flowers 3/16-inch long with 4 to 6 tepals in a loose raceme 1-1/4 to 2-1/2 inches long; reddish-purple or brown bulblets along stem below. Bloom Period: June to September. Reference: "Flora of Colorado" by Jennifer Ackerfield, Minnesota Wildflowers 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