bitter dock
Family
PolygonaceaeScientific Name
Rumex obtusifolius
Synonyms (former Scientific Names):
Acetosa oblongifolia
Habit
This taprooted perennial sprouts in the early spring and flowers through the summer.
Leaves
The lower leaves are usually petioled and have a heart-shaped base. The 12-inch leaves are usually lance shaped or oblong. The stem leaves have a membranous sheath (ocrea) and progressively get smaller as they near the top of the plant. With age, the leaves become a reddish purple.
Identifying Characteristics
The plant's large broad leaves that form a basal rosette can identify this plant, while its wide, flat leaves differentiate it from the curly dock.
Flower Seed Head
Flowers occur in clusters on the upper portions of elongated stems. The flowers are composed of greenish sepals that turn reddish brown as they mature.
Seed Fruit
The seeds develop in an achene, which is encased in a papery, 3-winged calyx. The 2mm long achenes are triangular, and are a glossy brown in color.
Where Found
This plant prefers nutrient-rich damp soils. It can be found along roadsides, meadows, orchards, and drainage ditches.
Growth Habit
upright and nonwoody
Thorns or Spines
not present
Approximate Flower Diameter
pencil
Dominant Flower Color
Varies:
red,
green
Flower Symmetry
radial symmetery
Leaf Hairs
no hairs
Leaf Shape
Varies:
round,
heart,
oval
Leaf Arrangement
Varies:
alternate,
rosette
Leaf Margin
entire
Leaf Structure
simple
Leaf Stalk
shorter than leaf
Stem Hairs
no hairs
Stem Cross Section
round or oval
Milky Sap
not present
Root Structure
Varies:
fibrous,
taproot
Life Cycle
perennial
Ochrea
present
Plant Type
Herb