American Bistort (Polygonum bistortoides)

Family: Polygonaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Polygonum bistortoides is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Roots/Tubers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant acid flavour, they are used as a potherb. — Leaves - raw or cooked.; A pleasant acid flavour, they are used as a potherb.; Root - raw or cooked.; Starchy and rather pleasant, the root can be baked or added to soups, stews etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Moist or wet meadows and swamps, seldom below 2500 metres. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)