Polygonaceae (Buckwheat Family)

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Definitions

* Note: All of the smartweeds are difficult to distinguish as their characteristics overlap with several other species. Considered weedy. Introduced from Europe.  Among its many other common names are: redshank, willow weed, common persicaria, spotted smartweed, heartweed, spotted knotweed and lover's pride.

* Stem: Erect, branched, can be a few inches to 2' in height, smooth with swollen nodes, papery fringed sheaths above the leaves have coarse hairs on the outside.

* Flower: Dense clusters at stem tips, brightly colored, reddish petals.

* Leaves: 2" to 5", lance shaped, alternate, pointed tips usually with a triangular spot in the center.

* Habitat: Gardens, irrigated fields.