Amphibious Bistort
Persicaria amphibia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
8"–40" H × 12"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
OR
Pollinators
bees, flies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Amphibious bistort is a native perennial that thrives in wet soils and can adapt to both aquatic and terrestrial conditions. It produces attractive pink flower spikes from June through September and spreads readily through underground rhizomes. This plant works well in rain gardens, pond edges, and consistently moist areas where other plants struggle.
In an HOA neighborhood
Amphibious Bistort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Aggressive spreading habit can appear uncontrolled
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may look messy
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare patches
Wildlife value
The long-blooming pink flower spikes attract bees, flies, and beetles throughout the summer months. Seeds provide food for waterfowl and other birds in wetland settings.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Amphibious Bistort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.