[2] Its range stretches further south in high mountainous areas such as the Alps, Carpathians, Pyrenees, Caucasus, Alaska and the Tibetan Plateau.

Molecular phylogenetic work has demonstrated that the genus Bistorta represents a distinct lineage within the family Polygonaceae.

The tiny flowers are white or pink in the upper part of the spike with five perianth segments, eight stamens with purple anthers and three fused carpels.

[5] The bulbils are rich in starch and are a preferred food for rock ptarmigans (Lagopus mutus)[6] and reindeer; they are also occasionally used by Arctic peoples.

Typical habitats include moist short grassland, yards, the edges of tracks, and nutrient-rich fens.