This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: moist soil, but well drained soil
• Rate of growth: fast
• Flowering period: July to September
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  An unusual variety of bistort, grown for its dramatic foliage that changes colour with the seasons. In spring, its velvety, burgundy-plum, long heart-shaped leaves are set off by a silvery, metallic, chevron-shaped marking, which gradually turns red as the foliage becomes greener. It is fairly vigorous, though not invasive, and forms a natural mound, with sprays of tiny white flowers in late summer. Try it as an eye-catching groundcover plant in moist, even boggy soil or beside water or as a handsome plant in a container.
  
  
• Garden care: Keep well watered, unless the soil is naturally moist or water retentive. No pruning required. Cut back in autumn. Lift and divide congested colonies in spring or autumn.