Firetail Mountain Fleece

Bistorta amplexicaulis (bis-TOR-ta am-pleks-ih-KAWL-is)

Family: Polygonaceae Non-native Herbaceous (3-15 ft)

Mountain Fleece is a large, clumping and spreading, herbaceous flowering perennial that enjoys the sun and moist soil. Firetail is a specific cultivar of Bistorta amplexicaulis developed in the 1980's. Widely used in European gardens, its red, long-blooming flowers bloom all summer on tall spikes, making it a nice addition to the cutting garden and flower arrangements. It is a member of the Buckwheat family, with its name coming from the Latin word “Bistort”, meaning twice twisted, referring to its S-shaped root, and “Amplexicaulis", meaning clasping or embracing the stem, referring to the leaves that grow around the stem. Mountain Fleece needs consistently damp, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade, although it enjoys a bit of shade in the hot summer. It will tolerate wet soil. The plant is a moderate grower, reaching a mature size of 3-4 feet tall and wide in 2-5 years. In optimum growing conditions, plants of this species will slowly spread in the garden making it a good ground cover. Self-seeding may occur. Although not invasive, this plant is best sited in locations where it has room to spread. Propagate Mountain Fleece in the spring or fall by dividing the rhizomes. Occasionally it will self-seed, but most often the seedling will not resemble the parent plant. Cut back flowers after blooming to keep tidy. Mulch with a few inches of bark, pine needles, chopped leaves to keep the soil moist, and protect from harsh winters. Diseases, Insects, and Other Plant Problems: Mountain Fleece does not have any serious insect or disease problems, but may be visited by aphids, Japanese beetles, slugs, and snails. Protect from strong winds.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 59 attributes.