Polygonum bistorta, Persicaria bistorta
Plant Details
General Information
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Moist, Wet
Sand (light) Loam (medium) Clay (heavy)
Acid Neutral Basic
Half shade, Sun
Usage properties
Leaves, Root, Seed
None
Description
Leaves: Raw or cooked. Young leaves have a mild flavor, while older leaves are bitter. The raw leaves are tough in texture and can effectively replace spinach. In Northern England, the leaves are used in a bitter Easter pudding. They are usually available from late winter to early autumn and are a good source of vitamins A and C. Seeds: Raw or cooked. The seeds are very small and difficult to handle. Root: Raw or cooked. Roots are rich in starch and tannins. Soaking and roasting them can reduce the tannin content. They have a pleasant flavor and are nutritious, making them ideal for cooking or adding to soups and stews. Roots can also be dried and ground into a powder that can be used in bread making.
Harvest Data
Guilds
Guild Information
Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.
Guild Details
| Guild | Description |
|---|---|
|
Prunus cerasus Sour cherry |
Companion with a high nitrogen-fixing capacity enhances soil fertility for better growth. |
|
Prunus domestica Plum |
This companion provides shade and moisture retention, beneficial for the growth of Polygonum bistorta. |
|
Rubus idaeus Raspberry |
Raspberry can be a great ground cover that reduces weeds and helps retain soil moisture. |
|
Salix alba Willow |
The presence of willow can increase soil moisture and improve soil structure. |
|
Sambucus nigra European elder |
Elderberry attracts beneficial insects and provides additional organic matter to the soil when pruned. |