This taprooted perennial begins germinating in late spring, continuing into fall if conditions permit. The plant then emerges in midspring, flowering from April through July.
Leaves:
The plant produces a basal rosette of hairless leaves that are dark green with wavy margins. The alternate stem leaves are surrounded by a membranous sheath (ocrea), and are both smaller in size in number than the basal leaves
Leaf Arrangement:
Alternate
Characteristics:
This plant can be differentiated from the broadleaf dock by it's wavy narrow leaves.
Flower Seed Head:
Flowers occur in clusters 15 to 60 cm long on an elongated stem. The flowers are made up of greenish sepals that turn reddish brown as it matures.
Seed Fruit:
The seeds are contained in a 2 mm long triangular, glossy brown achene. Achenes are found inside a triangular calyx, with papery structures surrounding it, allowing it to float on water.
Where Found:
This plant prefers moist soil, and can be found in standing water, or areas that are frequently over watered. They can be found growing in low-lying meadows or pastures, orchards, and along drainage ditches