About Bistorta plumosa (Small) Greene
Taxon Identity and Growth Form
Bistorta plumosa (Small) Greene is a perennial herb that grows 10 to 40 cm tall from a dense, contorted rhizome.
Leaf Arrangement and Petiole Traits
It produces simple alternate leaves with winged petioles that are sheathing at the base.
Leaf Blade Characteristics
Leaf blades are dark green on the upper surface, grey on the underside, commonly asymmetrical, and shaped lanceolate or ovate.
Stem and Inflorescence Structure
Plants may have one to several stems, each ending in a cylindric to egg-shaped inflorescence that is usually more than 1 cm wide.
Tepal Morphology
Its flowers have tepals, stamens, and stigmas; tepals are oblong to elliptic with an obtuse or acute apex.
Stamen and Anther Traits
Stamens may be exserted, and carry dark purple or black anthers.
Species Distribution Range
This species has an arctic-alpine distribution, and is endemic to Beringia, occurring in both Alaska and Siberia.
Habitat Elevation and Slope Preference
It grows at elevations between 289 m and 1575 m, and is more commonly found on north-facing slopes.
Ecosystem Role
It is an important component of alpine tundra ecosystems.
Leaf Nutritional Content and Edible Use
The leaves of Bistorta plumosa have high vitamin A and C content, and are eaten as a vegetable similar to spinach.
Traditional Indigenous Uses
Historically, Alaskan Natives used this plant as a dietary aid, and boiled its roots to add to stew.
Scientific Research Application
It has also been used as a model organism in plant physiology studies focused on carbon assimilation rates.
