Red Bistort (Mountain Fleece)

• Common Name: Red Bistort (Mountain Fleece)
• Latin Name: Persicaria amplexicaulis
• Family Name: Polygonaceae

Red Bistort is a member of the Polygonaceae family where many members contain oxalic acid which binds with calcium, thus preventing absorption.  This member of the Persicaria genus of plants has been bred to have a more showy flower and is often cultivated for gardens.

Although mainly to be found in shades of pink and red, there are also varieties with white flowers.   See also Knotweed, Bistort and Persicaria.